The current batch of new releases from MGM includes "Hour of the Gun", "The Hunting Party", "Sam Whiskey", "More Dead Than Alive", "Invitation To A Gunfighter", "Escort West", and "The Scalphunters." . Starring some of the biggest stars to slap leather, these films feature Yul Brynner, Burt Lancaster, Burt Reynolds, Telly Savalas, Vincent Price, Clint Walker, Ossie Davis, Gene Hackman, Oliver Reed, James Garner, Jason Robards, and George Segal. First off the top is "Sam Whiskey" (1969) with Reynolds, Walker and Angie Dickinson. "Sam Whiskey" is a wacky western full of twists and turns that leave you wondering why Burt didn't make more of these off beat films. Burt plays con artist Sam Whiskey, whose head is turned by the pretty widow (Dickinson) and is convinced to return stolen money back to the US Mint. Clint Walker has a great role in this one, just like in "More Dead Than Alive".
"More Dead Than Alive" pits Clint Walker with Vincent Price and Anne Francis against the past of a killer. "Killer" Cain is released from prison after serving 18 years and swears never to touch a gun again. 18 years of prison taints an employment record and the only job he can find is with Dan Ruffalo's sideshow. Vincent Price as Dan Ruffalo is outstanding, exhibiting his usual excellent performance. As the resident marksman Cain, his discovery by old enemies opens wounds again and forces him to choose between his new life, or to become a killer again. A great story from George Schenk, that translates well to the screen. Got a spare night, grab "More Dead Than Alive". Clint Walker says so.
"Who will be the last man standing?" the jacket to "Invitation To A Gunfighter" proclaims? Like "More Dead Than Alive", ITG plays in the psychological realm. Yul Brynner portrays Jules Gaspard D'Estaing, a gunfighter who is hired by the town boss (Pat Hingle) to kill Matt Weaver (George Segal). The more D'Estaing learns about Weaver, the more he struggles with his conscience. In an area rife with un-conscionable men, he may just be the last honest one left. 'To kill or not to kill? That is the question?' Gotta love this one from 1964 folks-ever dream you were a gunfighter? You may not after watching this!
