FIVE CARD STUD

Five Card Stud is a captivating blend of action, mystery, and Western flair that emerged from the film industry in 1968. Directed by Henry Hathaway, the movie features Robert Mitchum as the enigmatic Reverend Rudd and Dean Martin as the quick-witted professional gambler, Van Morgan. Also lending credibility to the strong cast is Inger Stevens who plays Lily Langford, a character surrounded by an intriguing aura of mystery.

The movie starts off in an engaging setting: a high-stakes poker game gone awry in the small, eerie town of Rincon, Colorado during the 1880s. A unique characteristic of this town is its unwavering devotion to the game of poker, a devotion so deep that it's almost religious. Themes of deceit and treachery are embedded from the onset, setting the tone for the rest of the movie. After one of the players is caught cheating and subsequently killed by the remaining gamblers, Van Morgan, played by Dean Martin, is troubled by the outcome.

Upon leaving the town out of disgust for their brutal vigilante-style justice, he is called back upon hearing of the suspicious and gruesome deaths of the other players who were involved in that ill-fated poker game. Suspicion and tension rise as Morgan returns to Rincon and the players are killed one by one. The atmosphere grows increasingly eerie and tension-filled with each passing scene, further complementing the film's central theme of suspicion and vengeance.

In the midst of this chaos, Reverend Rudd, flawlessly portrayed by Robert Mitchum, arrives, adding to the complexity of the unfolding events. The charismatic Reverend brings a sense of spiritual authority to the lawless town, but also adds another layer of mystery, fear, and suspicion with his peculiarities and an unshakeable calm. As the Reverend preaches sermons about divine judgment, viewers are led to question his true intentions.

Inger Stevens, as Lily Langford, brings necessary and refreshing female presence in this male-dominated narrative. Her character adds a sense of suspense, richness, and depth to the unfolding drama, with her ambiguity enhancing the movie's overall thrilling atmosphere.

Five Card Stud masterfully captures the gravity of the unfolding events through its atmospheric visuals and detailed set designs. From eerie, desolate landscapes conveyed through wide shots to intense card games projected via extreme close-ups, the visual storytelling is both impressive and immersive. The film's lush costuming and art direction accurately portray the 1880s setting, and Robert Mitchum's charismatic, poised portrayal as the reverend enhances the period accuracy.

Apart from the strong narrative line and impressive visuals, the film also magnificently utilizes its sound design to create an environment that's suspenseful and mysterious. The hauntingly beautiful music score composed by Maurice Jarre accentuates the eerie atmosphere and provides a perfect backdrop to the thrilling on-screen events.

Five Card Stud provides a distinctively modern twist to the classic western, taking the genre beyond gunfights and rugged heroics. Instead, the focus lies on the psychological underpinnings of the characters, their complex motivations, deep fears, and the burden of their actions. It dissect the notions of judgment, redemption, and moral decay set against the tableau of an ethically compromised frontier community.

Even though Five Card Stud was released over half a century ago, its themes and plot remain relevant and fascinating for modern audiences. This unique blend of mystery, Western, and action, fortified by stellar performances from its lead actors and a strong supporting cast, set it apart from your everyday cowboy film.

Five Card Stud is, therefore, a recommended watch for those who love Western films, but yearn for narratives that feature in-depth human examination, rather than just fast-paced gun-slinging. This film is also a must-watch for fans of Dean Martin and Robert Mitchum, as both actors render outstanding performances that display their acting range and flexibility. The suspense, a dramatic storyline, and a well-crafted setting make it an engaging experience for anyone who enjoys a good mystery.