Best of the Badmen

Released by RKO Radio Pictures in the summer of 1951, Best of the Badmen is an intriguing blend of historical fiction, western adventure, and romantic drama. Directed by veteran filmmaker William D. Russell and penned by Robert Hardy Andrews, the film offers a fresh and inventive take on the post-Civil War era, focusing on the lawless outlaws and relentless law enforcers of the period. The lead roles are essayed by Robert Ryan, Claire Trevor, and Jack Buetel, with each of them delivering commendable performances.

Set against the tense backdrop of the immediate post-American Civil War period, Best of the Badmen centres on Major Matthew “Matt” Stewart, played with nuance and grace by Robert Ryan. Stewart is a Confederate Major who refuses to lay down his arms at the end of the war. He is portrayed as a heroic figure, forever bound by his allegiance to his southern comrades, and his story weaves a captivating narrative about honor, loyalty, and defiance.

As he roams the violent plains of post-war America, Stewart becomes entwined with notorious outlaws and bank robbers lurking in the shadows of the newly united nation. These figures are depicted as hapless victims of a war-ravaged society rather than hardened criminals. The film smartly diameters divisive figures like Jesse James and the Younger gang, shedding light on their defiant stands against the forces that oppressed them, which mainly is the detective agency run by a man named John Peterson, portrayed by Robert Preston.

Stewart's path crosses with Lily (portrayed by Claire Trevor), a saloon keeper who is as tough and resilient as she is charming and vulnerable. Trevor’s performance adds a unique dimension to the Western landscape, presenting a woman who is fiercely independent yet intimately entwined with the socio-political dynamics of her surroundings. The chemistry between Lily and Stewart provides a romantic subplot that efficiently contrasts the overall violent theme of the story, offering audiences brief, tender respites from the action-packed narrative.

Adding to the movie's intrigue is Itch Kowel (Jack Buetel), a member of the Younger gang who double-crosses his comrades, leading them straight into Stewart's path and triggering a series of dramatic events that shape the rest of the movie. Buetel paints a vivid picture of a man tormented by his choices and trapped between his allegiance to his friends and his survival instincts.

A prominent theme of Best of the Badmen is its exploration of morality, justice, loyalty, and the corruption of post-war transitional systems. These themes are explored through the personal journeys of the characters and the societal hierarchies they navigate. While it may be labeled a western, it deviates from the typical plots and character stereotypes generally associated with the genre. Instead, it leans into the human drama and internal conflicts of its main characters, elevating its narrative above the conventional linear progression of typical westerns.

Best of the Badmen is further enhanced by George E. Diskant's stunning cinematography. Every frame captures the essence of the vast untamed wild, the dense forests, and dusty towns of the post-Civil War Missouri. The film is also known for its visually stirring climactic scenes, spoken with gunfights and tense standoffs, invoking the spirit of the genre while challenging its traditional narrative norms.

Backed by rich performances from its ensemble cast and complemented by its narrative's unexpected complexity, the film combines drama, romance, and action, a choice that caters to a wide array of audience tastes. The movie interestingly transforms notorious outlaws into empathetic characters, from whom the audience would be hard-pressed not to root for despite their occasional law-breaking exploits.

To conclude, Best of the Badmen is a Western with significant depth, transporting viewers to an era fraught with tension and change. It presents a narrative that is as much about societal transition as it is about individual identity and moral conflicts. The stellar performances and striking visuals come together smoothly and create a distinct cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impression, making it an exciting watch for fans of Westerns and character-driven dramas alike.