Movie Review: Silverado (1985)

Silverado (1985) co-written, produced, and directed by Lawrence Kasden

Fresh-out-of-jail Emmett (Scott Glenn) is ambushed by a mysterious assassin in a remote cabin but turns the tables on his would-be killer. It's the late 19th century American Southwest, so he takes the guy's horse back to civilization, presumably to sell it or find out about who wants him dead. He picks up an eccentric cowboy named Paden (Kevin Kline) whose lost everything, including his boots and clothes. When they get to town, they find more trouble and help out another loner, Mal (Danny Glover), who is just passing through and wants a drink and a bed for the night, though the local racists make trouble. Emmett discovers his brother Jake (Kevin Kostner) has been jailed and will be hung the next day. Emmett breaks him out in the morning, forcing the four cowboys (Emmett, Jake, Mal, and Paden) to flee. Their next stop is Silverado, where Emmett and Jake have a sister they want to say goodbye to as they head off to California to seek their fortune. Mal's parents have a farm just outside of town. Paden is along for the ride. They discover more trouble when the get there...a lot more trouble.

This is an unabashed throwback to classic westerns, full of tropes and common images. The cowboys help out a wagon train, have a street fight with the bad guys, drink whiskey in saloons, ride all over the range, discover a box-canyon hideout, fight corrupt sheriffs, cause a cattle stampede, shoot guy who falls off the rooftop down to the street, etc. etc. The creators show no cynicism or revisionism, just a wholehearted enthusiasm for an exciting adventure in the Old West. It's such a delight with a cast that shines in their roles. The plot is a little convoluted but the film has so much energy and charm, it is easy to forgive.

Recommended, highly for Western fans.