Bad Man's River (or Hunt the Man Down) is about a conman of sorts (Lee Van Cleef) who joins forces with his devious ex-wife (Gina Lollobrigida) in order to swindle the Mexican government.
Let's start with the bad. It's quite campy, the plot's a bit scattered, and the characters are thin at best. I don't have a great
amount of experience with comedy Westerns, but this one seemed on the nuttier end of the spectrum. The music was somewhat awkward and it's not always clear just what's going on.
But I liked this movie! It's pleasantly entertaining and it has this sort of idle amusement, for when you're just looking to plop on the couch and watch something-- which is exactly what I did. I've realized that I'll watch Lee Van Cleef in anything, and it was refreshing seeing him in a far more light-hearted role than usual. So watch it if you love Lee.
It certainly isn't the smartest of films, but it is enjoyable. -65%
February 21, 2011
