“The Train Robbers,” a 1973 Western starring the iconic John Wayne, delivers a solid dose of classic genre entertainment. Directed by Burt Kennedy, this film blends action, adventure, and a touch of mystery, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of Wayne and Western movies in general. While perhaps not as widely celebrated as some of Wayne’s other masterpieces, “The Train Robbers” offers a satisfying viewing experience with its engaging plot and strong performances.
The story centers around a widow, Mrs. Lowe (Ann-Margret), who hires a group of cowboys, led by Lane (John Wayne), to recover stolen gold. This gold, taken in a Wells Fargo robbery, is crucial to clearing her deceased husband’s name. Lane assembles a capable crew, including figures portrayed by Rod Taylor, Ben Johnson, and Christopher George, and they embark on a journey into the desert to retrieve the loot. However, they are not alone in their pursuit; a gang of ruthless outlaws and a Pinkerton detective (Ricardo Montalban) are also hot on the trail of the gold.
One of the film’s highlights is the thrilling attack on the train wreckage where Wayne and his men take shelter. This sequence is filled with intense action and suspense, showcasing the classic Western elements that audiences love. The final confrontation is equally exciting, providing a satisfying resolution to the gold retrieval mission. “The Train Robbers” maintains a good pace throughout, with plenty of horseback riding, emotional moments, and adventurous scenarios to keep viewers engaged. The relaxed yet professional acting style of the cast contributes to the film’s easygoing and entertaining nature.
Interestingly, the names of John Wayne’s and Ann-Margret’s characters, Lane and Mrs. Lowe, mirror the character names Wayne and Geraldine Page played in “Hondo” (1953). While the basic storyline is straightforward, “The Train Robbers” incorporates a surprising plot twist towards the end, which many viewers find to be a standout element of the movie, adding an unexpected layer to the narrative.
The supporting cast is a strong asset to the film. Ricardo Montalban delivers a memorable performance as the persistent Pinkerton detective, while veteran Western actors Ben Johnson, Jerry Gatlin, and Christopher George (who also appeared with Wayne in “El Dorado” and “Chisum”) add depth and credibility to the cowboy ensemble.
Adding to the film’s Western atmosphere is the excellent musical score by Dominic Frontiere, known for his work on other Western soundtracks like “Barquero,” “Chisum,” and “Hang ‘Em High.” The cinematography by William H. Clothier, a frequent collaborator with John Wayne, is visually impressive. “The Train Robbers” was Clothier’s final film, and it showcases his talent for capturing the beauty of outdoor locations in vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal of the Western landscape.
“The Train Robbers” was produced by John Wayne and his son Michael G. Wayne under their Batjac Productions company. Burt Kennedy, who directed the film, was also a writer known for several classic Westerns, often starring Randolph Scott and directed by Budd Boetticher. His experience in the genre is evident in the solid direction of “The Train Robbers.”
In conclusion, “The Train Robbers” is a nice and good Western film that should appeal particularly to John Wayne enthusiasts and fans of the genre. It provides a satisfying dose of Western action, a simple yet engaging plot with a twist, and strong performances from a seasoned cast. It’s definitely a worthwhile movie to watch for those looking for classic Western entertainment.
