Watch The Trap

The Trap is a gripping 1959 Western film that offers a fresh take on a classic storyline. Directed by Norman Panama, the film tells the story of a fur trapper named Ralph Anderson (Richard Widmark) who ventures into the wilderness in search of a beaver pelt to present as a gift to his wife. During his expedition, Ralph is captured by two criminals - thieves Tom (Lee J. Cobb) and Joe (Earl Holliman) - who force him to guide them through the treacherous terrain. Together, the trio sets off on a perilous journey through the snow-covered landscape, with danger lurking around every bend.

Richard Widmark puts in a stellar performance as Ralph, a man forced to choose between his own safety and the safety of his loved ones. Widmark's portrayal of the tough, resourceful trapper is a standout, with the actor imbuing the character with an understated emotional depth. Lee J. Cobb's turn as Tom is equally impressive; the veteran actor captures both the menace and the humanity of the driven thief.

The film's setting serves as a character unto itself, with the rugged, wild terrain providing a stark contrast to the tension and danger at the heart of the story. The depiction of the landscape is stunning, with panoramic shots of snow-laden mountains and icy rivers heightening the sense of isolation and peril faced by Ralph and the criminals who follow him. The score, too, is evocative, with composer Gerald Fried's use of traditional Western motifs helping to ground the film in its genre while also lending it a distinctive voice.

As the group progresses on their journey, tensions rise, and alliances are tested. The constant threat from Native American tribes adds to the already high stakes. The script, penned by Panama and Melvin Frank, is top-notch, deftly balancing the suspenseful and action-packed set pieces with moments of quiet reflection and character development.

Tina Louise's role as Ralph's wife, Lutie, is somewhat limited, but she makes the most of her screen time, portraying Lutie as a loving and resilient partner who refuses to give up hope for her husband's safe return. Additionally, a young Carl Benton Reid plays the role of the stern, no-nonsense Sheriff, who is determined to apprehend the outlaws he's been tracking for months.

All in all, The Trap is a thrilling adventure that showcases the best of the Western genre. With its excellent performances, breathtaking cinematography, and tension-filled plot, this film remains a masterpiece of its time. While it may not be as well known as some of the other classic Westerns of the era, The Trap is certainly on par with the best of them and is not to be missed by fans of the genre.

The Trap is a 1959 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.