The idea to take the typical Western plot (stranger gets hired by sadistic land owner and turns against him) and move it to Australia is quite good. Of course, the majority of the film does still feel like a Western, but still the Australian Outback and especially the Aboriginals do make for a very unique atmosphere
throughout the film, even if the rest is taken from the pile of usual ingredients. Tom Selleck makes for a likable and charming leading man and we already know Alan Rickman can play wonderfully mean bad guys. It is the female lead with the tragic back story that sometimes feels a bit over the top, and some of the dialogs could have been a bit spicier. But the beautiful scenery, great shootouts and enthralling plot that does not shy away from maiming the innocent brings this film home. An entertaining and visually very pleasing adventure.
June 29, 2006
