A ballsy claim on this film as it's hyped as "The best western since Unforgiven." I'll agree, but with the stipulation that it's not as good as Unforgiven.
This film is all about characterization so if you don't like lots of talking and slow builds, skip it. There is more action here than Unforgiven, there's even a "moment" of true bad ass like Clint's (NOT on that same level), but this movie doesn't quite hit the mark. It is damn close though.
Christian Bale plays a crippled rancher who is in serious debt when he happens across the path of an outlaw named Wade, played by Russell Crowe. Bale and Crowe have a weird relationship early on as Crowe's "gentlemen psycho" attitude spares Bale his wrath. Their relationship gets more interesting as Bale agrees to get Crowe on the 3:10 to Yuma where he'll be hung. Meanwhile, Crowe gang is hot on their trail to spring their boss and kill everyone who gets in their way.
Bale and Crowe are the true stars here in every sense of the word. Bale proves his acting skills by portraying a desperate man in more ways than one. Crowe excells, but considering his off screen scandals, I'm not certain his role was much of a stretch.
There is a huge supporting cast of very familiar faces, but none truly shine outside of the kid who plays Bale's 14 year old son and the guy who plays the second-in-command of Crowe's gang. Actually, I should also mention the pilot from "Firefly" does a pretty cool job too, but he's not in a massive role.
Like Unforgiven, and I'm not saying this to be sexist, this film revolves around very male themes, including the entire ending of the film. I'm not certain everyone who sees this will get it.
Good flick that is worth the rental.
8 out of 10.