The Outlaw and the Baby

A complex story of hidden motives, conflicting affections, and social hierarchies, this Western spends much of its time expressing unspoken feelings through visual storytelling. This is efficient and often effective, but not enough to make up for a meandering plot and wooden script. The first of many Westerns directed by Clifford Lyons follows a man who begs for food and water at the home of a widow, finding trouble from her suspicious ranch hand. When the widow's former husband returns he allies himself with the ranch hand while the protagonist is discovered to be an outlaw wanted for murder. Ultimately, he is betrayed by the ranch hand and faces a showdown with the sheriff for the price on his head. Well-photographed and possessing a certain amount of atmosphere, its other weaknesses hold it back from being anything more than a curiosity. Its deliberate pacing and old-fashioned moralism may not appeal to some, and even fans of the Western will find this one too plodding to warrant more than a single watch although the increased attention to female characters means that there's a more modern feel to the film than one might have seen in previous works. While it's a little better than average, it could have used more character development and some pacing changes. This Western will only really appeal to big fans of the sub-genre. If you are one, you may find that this film offers a fresh new take on a classic formula with some good level of action but with a story that is just okay to watch once but it's not something that you'll want to remember afterward. The Outlaw And The Child is a solid Western which is brought down by a screenplay that can't avoid clichés and a near non-existent budget. The first twenty minutes are beyond dull but thankfully the film kicks into gear just when it looks like you might give up on it completely and by the final act, you will be glad you hung in there. There are a few interesting story ideas here, one of which is a change of heart for the outlaw figure. This was a concept that was seldom explored in movies up until this point and avoids any cheap and easy escapes from justice at the end - although it still retains an overwhelming sense of hope. While the Outlaw And The Child isn't perfect, it's a film that's well-worth watching for fans of Westerns or those who are looking for a movie with a nice old-time feel to it. With a well-crafted script, solid direction, and memorable characterization, the Outlaw And The Child is a film that is sure to please audiences. If you're looking for a Western with a unique premise and amazing new take on the outlaw trope you won't be able to resist this in your collection. If you are a fan of this kind of movie or have grown up watching them, you are going to enjoy this one for sure. Its issues do hold the film back from its full potential but it's still a solid entry that is well worth a watch for those who are patient enough and want something different in their Westerns.