On K List of Movie Reviews

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The Kentuckian (1955)

Rate: 9
Viewed: 12/20

12/20: If you love Burt Lancaster's films, you're in a treat for The Kentuckian, the only fully directed picture of his career.

It's been a long time since I heard such writing that's wholesome, clean, and rich. The Technicolor cinematography is beautiful.

This one is complemented by a strong cast with the mean Walter Matthau in his feature film debut, realistic-looking woodsman costumes, and a wonderful storyline that's full of adventure with its share of ups and downs. Most of all, the film has something to say about people and virtues.

The most impressive of all is the sight of Burt Lancaster running across the pond to get his man before he reloads his flintlock gun. Maybe with the exception of Sylvester Stallone, nobody could've done something like that at full speed and still make it dramatic.

All in all, unfairly criticized back then, The Kentuckian holds up well today, and I wish Burt Lancaster kept directing more pictures.

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