Burt Lancaster plays a sheriff named Maddox, who comes from his town of Brannock to the town of Sabbath in order to arrest some cattlemen responsible for the death of an old man, after their excessive celebration and shooting led to his death. The sheriff of Sabbath is an old friend(played by Robert Ryan) who is sympathetic, but cannot offer any help because his town is owned by a wealthy and powerful landowner(played by Lee J. Cobb) who would fire him if challenged. Maddox confronts Cobb, who does offer compensation to the old man's family, but cannot afford to have his men go to trial, which he thinks is pointless anyway. Maddox will not be swayed, and vows to arrest his men, leading to a violent chain of events that will devastate them all.
Intriguing and thought-provoking western has few clear-cut heroes or villains. Both lead characters have valid points, and it is interesting how Cobb's landowner is not presented as evil, just ruthless, which can also be said of Maddox.
Memorable ending is quite striking. Well acted, with fine direction by Michael Winner.
Intriguing and thought-provoking western has few clear-cut heroes or villains. Both lead characters have valid points, and it is interesting how Cobb's landowner is not presented as evil, just ruthless, which can also be said of Maddox.
Memorable ending is quite striking. Well acted, with fine direction by Michael Winner.