THE PLOT THUS FAR
In the early 20th century, some convicts while on a road gang escape and one of the convicts is Zach Provo, a half Indian, who was sent to prison during the latter part of the 19th century. He escapes with 6 others to exact vengeance on Sam Burgade the lawman who not only captured him but was also responsible for the death of Provo’s wife, at least in Provo’s mind. Part of his plan is to kidnap Burgade’s daughter, which prompts him to strap on his guns and go after him on horseback. Can Burgade who has been retired for sometime still have what it takes to track Provo down?
WHAT WE THOUGHT
Making his escape after killing two prison guards Zack Provo makes his way towards Yuma knowing that that’s not just where Burgade lives but where his his young daughter Susan, Barbara Hershey,resides as well. Using his fellow escaped convicts to lure Burgade into the vast Arizona Desert, by promising them $30,000.00 in gold coins that he buried there, Provo plans to exact his bloody vengeance on Burgade. But only after having him witness his daughter being brutally raped by his fellow convicts or are, in not being with a woman for years, as horny as a rabbit during mating season!
Brutal and very effective western that updates the John Wayne 1956 classic “The Searchers” in a father searching through dangerous Indian territory for his kidnapped daughter. Charlton Heston as the guilt-ridden Sam Burgade in his felling somehow responsible for killing Provo’s wife and then having to face the fact that the same thing can very well happen to his daughter Susan is perfect in the role of the aging and retired sheriff. Charles Coburn as the vengeful half breed Zach Provo is also at his best as the obsessed with hatred and murder escaped convict.
The DVD arrives with trailers, TV spots and a photo gallery. The A/V Quality is adequate for the film’s age with a standard definition transfer and a Dolby Surround track to support it. While it’s not an easily recognizable film, it’s a true blue man movie from the 1970s. Extra attention should be paid to Michael Parks’ incredible supporting role. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase.
RELEASE DATE: 01/17/2012
