Nerds That Geek Movie Review: ‘The Quick and the Dead’

Written by Scott Edwards

Holding a grudge is something that I have never believed in. When it comes down to it, if you are always thinking about what someone has done to you in the past, it only proves that they have beaten you. Trying to forget about it however could be one of the most difficult things to do since you have been wronged in one way or another. Some people focus all of their efforts on getting even, although they know that it is not right, while others sit and stew about it for a time but come to terms that what is done is done.

Ellen is on her way to the town of Redemption with only one thing on her mind, revenge. After losing her father many years ago, she blames the town mayor Herod for his death and won't turn back until he is dealt with. Upon arriving at town, she sees that they are setting up for a gun fighter contest that Herod takes so much pleasure in running. While sitting back and drinking her drink, Ellen thinks about taking her shot at the aging man, but a surprise comes flying through the door as a preacher is thrown into the bar.

Herod has requested that his old running mate Cort be a part of the contest this year. Although Cort has found solace in becoming a holy man, Herod is determined to make the man fight, one last time. As the board is filled up with fighters, the contest is ready to begin. Each gun fight will be held at the top of the hour and there will be no cheating as Herod’s men are stationed all around the town and are ready to mow down anyone that does not play by the rules.  

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As the fights commence, contestants are wounded and killed in the first round and even the preacher decides to draw and win his first match. Not wanting to be involved, Cort is forced to fight or die by Herod who has his sights set on Ellen, the only woman in the contest. Changing the rules from last man standing, to fight till the death, Herod is looking to protect his legacy and reassert himself as the true ruler of the little town. His residents are looking for someone to defeat the old gun fighter, but when their hired gun gets killed quickly, they have to believe that there is someone else that can take his place and there are only three people left that can fit that bill. Will any be able to defeat the old baron or will the town of Redemption whittle away under Herod’s leadership for another year?

The Quick and The Dead follows a group of gun fighters that are looking to prove their worth as they take on the best of the best. With a large winner’s pot, no one wants to turn away, but money is not everything as several gunslingers are looking to gain respect. As Herod has taken over the town of Redemption, he has become more rich and powerful than anyone. Needing to ensure that this is known by everyone in the town, he has come up with the plan to hold a gun fighter tournament to show his superiority. There are many who enter and few that have been able to walk away as he has never been defeated. Having to battle with arrogant fighters, hired guns, family, friends and now a beautiful stranger, Herod has to show how strong he really is to save face around his town and keep the people under his control for as long as he desires.  

This is one of those movies that whenever it comes on, I always find myself watching it all of the way through. With so many different character storylines, it is easy to get lost in the old town as you quickly realize what is going to happen in the end with all of the hatred everyone has for each other. With other objects becoming essential characters as well, such as the fighter’s guns, or the clock tower, I must admit that this film falls into one of my favorite modern western movies to date. With a stunning cast and a story that will keep you intrigued until the very end, it is hard to imagine wanting anything else in this movie. Happy Viewing.

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