Watch The Tall T

The Tall T is a classic western movie released in 1957 directed by Budd Boetticher and produced by Harry Joe Brown. It is based on a short story by Elmore Leonard - 'The Captives' - which was published in 1955. The film takes place in a small western town named Contention, where wealthy rancher Pat Brennan (Randolph Scott) is kidnapped by a trio of bandits - Frank Usher (Richard Boone), Billy Jack (Skip Homeier), and Chink (Henry Silva), while he's on his way to meet someone at a mining camp.

Initially, Brennan's captors plan to hold him for a $50,000 ransom, but things take an unexpected turn when they learn that Brennan is friends with the wealthy Ben Brigade (Robert Burton) and the latter would be willing to pay a much larger ransom.

As Brennan waits for Brigade to pay the ransom, he forms an uneasy bond with Usher, the reluctant leader of the gang. He also meets Doretta Mims (Maureen O'Sullivan), a woman who was also kidnapped by the gang along with her young son.

As days go by, the relationships between the characters grow more complex, and Brennan realizes he might need to take matters into his own hands if he wants to survive.

The Tall T is considered one of the finest examples of a "B" Western, a term used to define low-budget cowboy movies featuring relatively unknown actors, released as part of a double-bill. But despite its modest production values and limited budget, The Tall T manages to create a gripping and tense atmosphere throughout.

The film is notable for its strong performances, particularly that of Randolph Scott, who delivers a convincing portrayal of a brave cowboy caught in a dangerous situation. Richard Boone, who plays the leader of the gang, also delivers an impressive performance, which helps elevate the film's tension and drama.

The Tall T also features well-crafted action scenes, including a tense and thrilling pursuit sequence, which showcases the film's minimalist yet effective use of violence.

Aside from the action and suspense, The Tall T also explores deeper themes such as loyalty, friendship, and the value of human life. The characters are complex and well-written, which helps to create a sense of empathy towards them.

The Tall T is also notable for its cinematography, which was done by Charles Lawton Jr. The film was mostly shot outdoors, providing the backdrop of the desert and the mountains for the film's action sequences. Lawton's camera work is dynamic and skillful, showcasing the rugged beauty of the west while adding to the film's suspenseful mood.

In conclusion, The Tall T is a great example of the western genre, featuring strong performances, thrilling action sequences, and deeper themes that elevate it above other "B" westerns. It's a classic that shouldn't be missed by fans of westerns or those interested in classic cinema.

The Tall T is a 1957 western with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.