VHS CASE/SIDE
Length of film: 165 Minutes (Extended: 175 Minutes)
Rated: PG-13
Genre: Western
Director: Sergio Leone
Starring: Henry Fonda, Charles Bronson, Claudia Cardinale, Jason Robards, Gabriele Ferzetti.
IMDB Rank: 8.5/10
Part 1 Time: 98 Minutes (Extended: N/A)
Part 2 Time: 63 Minutes (Extended: N/A)
Where does the first part end? Railroad Barron Morton (Gabriele Ferzetti) speaks with Frank (Henry Fonda) at hideout discussing plans to purchase the land for the railway station. Morton is tired of Frank’s butcher tactics and decides to confront him.
Final line of dialogue on the first part: “Morton. Don’t worry about the land. If you feel like paying for it, you can pay. Of course, it won’t make any difference to you dealing with the new owner.” Frank responds to Morton.
First line of dialogue on the second part: “Cheyenne! Hey, Cheyenne!” one of Cheyenne’s men shouts from a distance as they explore the Sweetwater ranch. They are puzzled to find dimensions of a train station and building supplies.
How jarring is it when the first part ends? Somewhat, Morton hired Frank to “remove small obstacles from the tracks,” but little does he know Frank intends to become a wealthy businessman himself and will do whatever it takes to become one. Will Frank succeed in becoming a wealthy businessman or will past outlaw choices catch up with him?
Which part is better? The opening scene emphasizes the tone and period of mid-western America in the 19th century. From the start the tension can be felt. This tension continues to be present throughout the film. Part one is given a slight edge has it not only showcases the brutality of this time period, but also shows the different type of social groups present within mid-western America during this time.
Academy Awards: None
National Film Registry: 2009
THEATRICAL POSTER
Hollywood Half-Time 