Evil Roy Slade

Evil Roy Slade is a comedic western movie released in 1972, directed by Jerry Paris and starring John Astin as the titular character, Evil Roy Slade. The film is a parody of the traditional western genre, complete with tongue-in-cheek dialogue and exaggerated stereotypes.

The story follows the life of Evil Roy Slade, a notorious outlaw who has been terrorizing the west for years. Slade is ruthless, but he also has a soft spot for his horse, Trigger, and a love interest, Betsy Potter (played by Pamela Austin). Slade dreams of retiring from his life of crime and settling down with Betsy, but a sheriff named Bing Bell (played by Dick Shawn) is determined to bring him to justice.

Mickey Rooney also appears in the movie as a character called "The Governor," a corrupt politician who tries to use Evil Roy Slade for his own political gain. Other notable actors in the film include Dom DeLuise, Henry Gibson, and Milton Berle.

The film is filled with hilarious one-liners and comedic situations as Evil Roy Slade tries to outsmart Bing Bell and evade capture. Slade's antics include disguising himself as a milkman and a nun, as well as using his wit to outmaneuver his adversaries. The relationships between the characters are also a source of amusement, such as the odd friendship that develops between Bing Bell and Evil Roy Slade's right-hand man, Biggie (played by Henry Gibson).

The film also features musical numbers, including a song sung by Evil Roy Slade himself titled "I'll Share My World With You." The catchy tune is a nod to the western genre's tradition of including musical interludes, but with a humorous twist.

Despite being a satire, Evil Roy Slade does not shy away from some of the darker aspects of the western genre. There are shootouts and moments of tension that serve to remind the audience that, despite the comedy, the characters' lives are at stake.

Overall, Evil Roy Slade is a delightful send-up of the western genre that is buoyed by John Astin's fantastic performance as the title character. With a great supporting cast and clever writing, the film is a must-watch for fans of both comedies and westerns.