The Missing (2003)

[Scott]

THE MISSING (2003) - Just seen this Western/Suspense film yesterday at the second showing (3:35pm) of the day.  This film feels long, but it's a film you can definetly get into. The story (a bit like the Searchers), scenery, cinematography, characters are very good in this Ron Howard film starring Tommy Lee Jones and Cate Blanchett. Tommy Lee Jones character is rather pathetic almost embarrassing, but Jones plays the role as well (I suppose) as anyone could. Cate Blanchett and  the little girl (don't know her name) steal the film. The bad male Indian Witch (Burjo) is effective with his Native American magic and mysticism.
Through the film the characters resolve some family issues. Tommy Lee Jones plays a  flawed character, but his character comes thru for his family. Good family film with wholesome American attributes and values shining thru. The film has strong female characters and the Indians on the good side also show strong qualities. The film is set in 1850's New Mexico. Even though it has a SEARCHERS premise the film is unique in many scenes. If your looking for a good film this is one, but if your looking for fast pasted action then you may not like it. The film has tradition Western action. Rough and paced to the backdrop of the old West.

THE MISSING is the second Western film of the year that is very good along with Kevin Costners OPEN RANGE. Maybe the Western is going to make a come back?

There were about 20 people in the audience and they were mostly elderly. I like an empty theater or one that has a quite elderly crowd. Films are much better that way.