Movie Reviews for The Shadow Riders

The Shadow Riders

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Movie Reviews of The Shadow Riders

Movie Review: An OK film unless you've read L'Amour's Classic book.
Summary: 2 Stars

First off, I love westerns, whether on film or paper. Plus I'm a great fan of Louis L'Amour. So I was disappointed with this adaptation of one of his best stories. Although the basic plot starts off somewhat close to the book, by the middle of the movie it's strayed off so far as to not be recognizable. So hampered by that, I found The Shadow Riders to be lacking not only as a adaptation but as a western as well.

With a strong cast, inluding Tom Selleck, Sam Elliott, Katherine Ross, Ben Johnson, and R. G. Armstrong, to name a few, this could have been so much better. But being a "Made for TV" movie it was watered down from the start. Parts that should have been intense became almost tongue-in-cheek, the villians were almost comical in their characterizations, and the plot suffered because of it. At times it was almost like you were watching a comedy instead of what should have been a dark and intense film about a family trying to rescue their children before they're sold off into slavery in Mexico.

And that is where the problems lies. The film makers NEVER took the plot seriously and it shows in the acting, especially with Selleck. Watching him here all I can see is Magnum PI on a horse. When you see him in later westerns, such as Monte Walsh, Last Stand At Saber River, or even Quigley Down Under you see performances that make you forget who is playing the role. Not here.

There may be a couple of good moments but they are few and far between. I would recommend buying this only if you are rounding out some sort of western collection. Otherwise, don't bother.

Movie Review: Rent if you're curious; Don't buy this dog!
Summary: 2 Stars

I like both Selleck and Elliot in most of their westerns, but this is the exception that makes the rule. It does have its moments, particularly, in the final showdown. But, for the most part, it plods along with terrible dialog, huge lapses in logistical logic, and a ridiculous musical score that must have been barrowed from anything but a western. I can't blame the actors since they had to contend with a script that seemed like a 12 year old had written. Rent this or, better yet, Tivo it when it's on the late, late, late movie where it belongs. If the prequel, `The Sacketts,' is anything like this dog, I'll have to pass on it.