A Riveting Tale of Law, Order, and Redemption

Read Time:4 Minute, 26 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Tin Star [Limited Edition]
Approved –

Genre: Western
Year Released: 1957, 2024 Arrow Video Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 33m
Director(s): Anthony Mann
Writer(s): Dudley Nichols, Barney Slater, Joel Kane
Cast: Henry Fonda, Anthony Perkins, Betsy Palmer, Michel Ray, Neville Brand, John McIntire, Mary Webster, Peter Baldwin
Where To Watch: available April 30, 2024; pre-order here www.arrowvideo.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: So let's talk about the elephant in the room first; if you read my reviews, you’ll know I’m not a huge Western fan, but when you get a cast like this, with a director of this stature, come on!!! When you sit down to watch THE TIN STAR, you might expect the standard shootouts and saloon brawls typical of Westerns. What unfolds, however, is a layered narrative that captures the essence of moral evolution against a backdrop of frontier justice. The film pairs Henry Fonda and Anthony Perkins as a seasoned bounty hunter and an inexperienced sheriff, respectively, whose partnership becomes a powerful examination of leadership and redemption.

The screenplay by Dudley Nichols, which garnered an Oscar nomination, is a high point of the film. It develops the relationship between Morgan Hickman (Fonda) and Ben Owens (Perkins), with striking themes of authority and moral struggle in the rugged and untamed frontier. Both Fonda and Perkins deliver performances that add a superiority in the genre to their characters, illustrating the personal and ethical transformations they undergo.

Mann’s directorial approach focuses on the town's dusty streets rather than the wide-open landscapes typical of the genre. This choice enhances the film's focus on personal conflict and moral dilemmas. The cinematography, led by Loyal Griggs, uses stark black-and-white visuals to emphasize the harsh realities and moral ambiguities the protagonists face. Elmer Bernstein’s score complements this setting perfectly, weaving a layer of tension and emotion that enhances the narrative’s gravity.

A central motif in THE TIN STAR is transforming the sheriff's badge from a simple piece of metal to a respected symbol of authority and duty under Hickman's tutelage. This evolution reflects the town's shifting perceptions of Hickman, moving from mistrust to respect as they understand his true character and intentions.

The supporting performances by actors like John McIntire and Neville Brand add further intrigue to an already complex narrative. They portray characters who embody the complex nature of frontier life. These characters are not just obstacles but are essential to the protagonists' journey toward understanding and upholding justice.

THE TIN STAR is celebrated for its intelligent engagement with conformity, violence, and integrity themes. Mann does not avoid the darker aspects of the Old West but instead provides a resolution that suggests ongoing moral conflict, adding to the narrative that goes beyond simple right and wrong.

Ultimately, THE TIN STAR transcends the traditional boundaries of the Western genre. It invites viewers to reflect on the nature of law, order, and ethics, not just in the context of the American frontier but also in our contemporary lives. With compelling performances, a thoughtful narrative, and insightful direction, THE TIN STAR is a compelling watch for anyone interested in an intelligent and engaging take on the challenges that define—and still define—the concepts of justice and leadership.

Bonus Materials
Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentation
Original lossless mono audio and optional 2.0 stereo and 5.1 surround audio
Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing on all films
Brand new audio commentary by film historian Toby Roan
Apprenticing a Master – a brand new appreciation of the film by author and critic Neil Sinyard
Beyond the Score – a brand new interview with Peter Bernstein, son of Elmer Bernstein, on his father’s timeless musical mastery
Original theatrical trailer
Image Gallery
Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Sam Hadley
Double-sided fold-out poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Sam Hadley
Six postcard-sized reproduction art cards
Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the film by Barry Forshaw and original press notes

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[photo courtesy of ARROW VIDEO, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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