BEND OF THE RIVER (1952)

Anthony Mann and James Stewart's next western after their fantastic WINCHESTER '73 finds Stewart as a scout helping some settlers up Portland way.  Stewart has a past he's trying to outrun but it catches up with him when he comes upon some guys lynching a dude (Arthur Kennedy) out in the woods.  Ends up Kennedy has heard of Stewart and knows that he used to be a gunman for some raiders.  Fast-forward some and Stewart is having problems getting supplies up to the new settlement, so he takes the law into his own hands and just takes the supplies that rightfully belong to him.  Gunfire ensues along with an exciting chase across all kinds of inhospitable territory.  Even some starving gold miners get in on the action!

Beautiful scenery, awesome cast, great acting, fast pace, strong story and direction.  I really can't think of a single reason not to watch this if you're a western fan.  Check it out!

Mann - Stewart westerns:

WINCHESTER '73
THE NAKED SPUR
THE FAR COUNTRY
THE MAN FROM LARAMIE

Aunt Bee.

SHADOW OF A DOUBT (1943)

"The world's a hell. What does it matter what happens in it?"

Life in a small town is so boring, so young Teresa Wright is quite excited when her Uncle Charlie (Joseph Cotten) comes to visit her family.  Things are all hunky dory for a few days until Teresa starts to notice a few odd things about her uncle who she hasn't seen in years.  First off, he's kinda an asshole.  Secondly, he carries a lot of cash on him and thirdly, he's a fucking serial killer!!!  And worst of all: he knows she knows.  Yikes!

In the hands of Alfred Hitchcock this story rocks.  A lot of directors would be clumsy and screw the whole thing up, but Hitch plays it perfectly and even for such an old film it's still pretty exciting.  The story's logic is stretched a few times, but it's alright.  Great photography, quick pace, quirky characters, Skinny Puppy sample, strong performances, dark humor, lots of vampire themes/references.  Solid Hitchcock outing.  Worth a watch for sure.