"Breakheart Pass" is an curious hybrid film. Written by Alistair MacLean, it encompasses the western and "whodunit" genre with a twisting tale of cholera epidemics, fugitive gunmen, corrupt politicians and Indian uprisings. Starring Charles Bronson at the peak of his career, this often overlooked film has many virtues to endear it to both the casual viewer and the die-hard film fan.
"Breakheart Pass" is very much a product of the 70's. Director Tom Gries, a veteran of many TV series, reveals the story in the manner of the detective and cop shows of the time. The cast is full of talented characters actors such as Ben Johnson, Ed Lauter and Richard Crenna, playing larger than life protagonists. The action scenes are effectively done, as this was the final film for veteran stunt legend Yakima Cannutt. Lucien Ballard's cinematography is striking and Jerry Goldsmith rounds off the movie with a lively and memorable score.
The western was in decline by the middle seventies and films such as this strived to bring an alternative angle to a tired genre. Yes there are flaws such as the episodic nature of the plot and the cliched "cavalry to the rescue" ending but I find it hard to dislike such honest adaptation of a mainstream bestseller.
I've uploaded Jerry Goldsmith's main theme as I consider it to be representative of his best work during the 70's. Enjoy.
"Breakheart Pass" main theme.
XoD.
2008-06-22 @ 22:45