The Silver Screen Oasis

Don't miss this unusual western with Fred MacMurray showing early tomorrow (8/4). Interesting ties to film noir, especially the previous year's Pushover, but unlike that movie, where a good man is corrupted, Face of a Fugitive has MacMurray seeking redemption and confronting his demons. A nice little film that also wins top prize for unrealistic use of barbed wire (you'll know it when you see it).

It is a pretty good picture. (I like this one better than the other MacMurray western "A Good Day For A Hanging.") Fred does do a coming to terms with his situation. I found it interesting that we never really found out why he was in custody at the beginning of the picture but it turns out he has a multitude of sins in his past.

A typical climax, and that is not bad, is on hand but mostly it is a study in MacMurray's head and heart. (This is not your "My Three Sons" Fred.)

James Coburn has a minor supporting role working for the bad guy land owner.

I don't know this western, but it's a good title. Though, it makes me think of David Janssen more than Fred MacMurray!