The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

A brilliant western, which has almost 50 years behind it, but that doesn't change the fact that it is the most extensive and at the same time the best part of the "Dollars Trilogy". We can talk about a trilogy, but we can't really say it directly. The films were presented at the moment they first reached the States because the studio could make more money that way. People will go to see three films that are part of a series rather than three unrelated films. After all, there is definitely a connection here. The first is director Sergio Leone, the second is composer Ennio Morricone. These two had to come together because otherwise the world would be deprived of great films with absolutely unbeatable music. The music here is not a classic soundtrack where you hardly notice it, but it's something that elevates the film. Its tones are what shape the scenes in some moments. This is true especially in the opening part, but it really got me in the final part, when the decision is made about who will actually get the treasure. The duel of the three gunmen is absolutely perfect here. It is an incredibly long scene and it is the music, along with the camera, that keeps you in suspense. These are the kinds of films that are worth spending three hours on and watching because these films made history. Sergio Leone had a fairly simple script. A trio of men who can never get along must proceed together because otherwise they will never reach the great treasure of Confederate gold buried by a soldier. This is the plot that is reached after about an hour and a half. Sergio Leone perfectly describes the characters and their destinies. Without that half-hour introduction, we would not understand the motivations of each character. It is absolutely necessary for the story and in this case, the three-hour film is definitely not boring or offensive. Sergio Leone also chose great actors - Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, who plays a completely different character than in the film "For a Few Dollars More", and finally Eli Wallach, who played the rogue Tuco, Eastwood's companion in many misdeeds, but also a person who cannot be trusted and who is closer to a noose than he would like. This trio, no matter how pleasant it may seem to you, guides you through the whole film. Wonderfully written characters, wonderfully acted. Each of them is different and each of them is actually a decent scoundrel. Together, they work perfectly until the very end. The film did not receive any Oscars, after all, it was an Italian western. Ennio Morricone did not receive an Oscar for the music, although he had five nominations, and Sergio Leone was not even nominated. Yes, the Oscars are primarily for Americans. It is changing lately, but I start to feel like it's sometimes too much of a comedy. We'll see what this year's Oscars will look like. Given that I also consider it a significant event, I will be watching it. If you like films that are not about romance, but rather about men who are capable of drawing their guns incredibly fast, watch this three-hour opus. You will see very little better in a western, and ultimately in film in general. More: http://www.filmovy-denik.cz/2013/02/now-is-good-stand-up-guys-bourne-30.html (05/03/2013) (less) (more)