A Review of the Movie “High Noon”
Last semester I took Introduction to Film, and every week we would watch a movie outside of class to discuss and help us learn about the topics for that week. I am not the biggest movie fan and to be honest, some of the movies were not my favorite. However, whenever I tell someone about the class or I hear that they are taking it, the first movie that comes to mind that I saw in that class is High Noon.
The movie was directed by Fred Zinneman and was released in 1952. It is an iconic Western film that includes the themes of bravery and morality. It does not disappoint and repeatedly captures the audience’s attention with its storytelling and memorable characters. A main idea throughout this film is courage as he has an unwavering commitment to enforce the law which shows his character’s strength.
The movie is about retired marshall Will Kane, who finds out on his wedding day that criminal Frank Miller is coming back to town on the noon train. He has to decide between leaving the town with his new wife or staying because he has an obligation to the town. He stays as he believes that Miller is out for revenge. He visits many friends and tries to find support from the townspeople, but he finds that everyone is too scared to stand by him and help even after all he has done for this town as marshal. This makes him forced to confront Miller on his own and he waits patiently for noon to come as this could be his last standoff.
A very important part of this movie, which is why I believe it was one of my favorites, is because of how time is used in this film. It is filmed in real-time which means that it is presented exactly as it occurs down to the very second. This creates an intense and suspenseful mood which takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster throughout the whole film as there are many cuts to various ticking clocks in town as noon quickly approaches. The cinematography is also a great part of the film as it perfectly captures the landscape to show the approaching danger that Kane is soon to be faced with.
Another important aspect is how the film fits into the typical Western genre as it contains what people normally think when they hear about a Western film such as cowboy boots, horses, tin stars, and even a showdown at the end. However, it is very different from other Western films as it focuses more on problems and individual sacrifices.
As noon approaches, Kane goes to confront Miller and his gang. He walks down the deserted streets of the town alone as Miller approaches. Kane’s new wife, Amy is the only one that helps him after she hears the first gunshot fired. The ending of the movie leaves the audience thinking about heroism as Kane throws down his blade in disgust against the townspeople and their cowardness after all he has done for them. It is very thought-provoking and raises questions about doing what is right and the role society plays.
All in all, High Noon has withstood the test of time and is a cinematic masterpiece that has earned its place in movie history. It is the exploration of moral dilemmas, memorable performances by the cast, and tension that make it a must-see for people who enjoy watching Western films. It leaves the audience wondering about the choices they would make if faced with the same problem. Lastly, the movie shows how films have the power to inspire courage and leave a big lasting impression on the audience.