Watch A Gunfighter's Pledge
- NR
- 2008
- 1 hr 19 min
-
5.4 (461)
A Gunfighter's Pledge is a Western drama film released in 2008 that tells the story of a hardened gunfighter named Matt Austin, played by Luke Perry. After participating in a brutal altercation, Matt decides to abandon his violent lifestyle and live peacefully as a farmer. However, the past catches up with him when a group of outlaws led by Asa Canfield, played by C. Thomas Howell, arrive in town looking for revenge against Matt.
The film begins with Matt leading a group of men in a violent clash with a gang led by Asa. In the midst of the battle, Matt sees the life of an innocent child taken and is haunted by the memory. He decides to turn his back on a life of violence and retire to a small farming town in order to lead a peaceful existence. Matt becomes employed by a widow named Laura Lee, played by Jaclyn DeSantis, who provides him with work and a place to live.
Despite his efforts to escape his past, Matt's reputation precedes him and he becomes the target of Asa and his gang. Asa is determined to seek revenge on Matt for the death of his brother during their previous encounter. He and his men terrorize the town and kill anyone who gets in their way, including Laura Lee's father. Matt must decide whether to continue to lead a peaceful life or to take up arms once again to protect the town and the people he has come to care for.
The film explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of violence. The character of Matt is a complex one, as the audience is shown flashbacks of his past and the events that led him to become a gunfighter. Luke Perry's portrayal of Matt is nuanced, displaying the character's internal struggles with violence and his desire to leave his past behind. C. Thomas Howell's Asa is a formidable antagonist, displaying a vicious and cruel side that makes the audience root for Matt to prevail against him.
Kim Coates also co-stars in the film as Sheriff Deegan, a lawman who is torn between upholding justice and protecting his own interests. Coates provides a solid performance that adds depth to the film's portrayal of the Wild West, where lawlessness often went unpunished and justice was often dispensed by the barrel of a gun.
The cinematography of A Gunfighter's Pledge is noteworthy, with breathtaking shots of the Western landscape and expertly choreographed shootouts. The film's set design and costumes also lend a sense of authenticity to the story, transporting the audience back to the days of the Wild West.
Overall, A Gunfighter's Pledge is a solid Western drama that explores complex themes and features strong performances from its cast. The film's themes of redemption and forgiveness are expertly weaved throughout the story, culminating in a satisfying climax that is sure to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.