Chato's Land

release year: 1971
genre: western
viewing setting: home DVD, 11/26/01

synopsis: Racist cowboys chase an Apache deep into the harsh desert. Their mistake.

impressions: This was a grim, often brutal western. The gist of it was stupid racists getting themselves into a situation far beyond their abilities. Not all of the posse were bad guys, which is why it was kind of sad to see them get drawn into the actions (and punishments) of the ones who were scum. The movie had some good desert scenery and plenty of ambushes and fights, but make no mistake: at its core was the motive of revenge.

things to watch for: Fiery revenge on rapist.

acting: Charles Bronson exudes menace as the lone renegade Chato. He's never intimidated and never shows weakness, and it's great. Jack Palance is the reluctant leader of the posse. Simon Oakland does a convincing job as the thoroughly despicable racist ringleader who eventually takes over the posse.

final word: Good grim revenge western, may be too mean for some people.

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