A movie based on the true life story of Bass Reeves, a legendary tough African American cowboy in the Wild West. Bass Reeves was the first black deputy U.S. marshal west of the Mississippi River.
He worked mostly in Arkansas and the Oklahoma Territory. During his long career, he was credited with arresting more than 3,000 felons. He shot and killed 14 outlaws in self-defense.
Hell on the Border is an unusual movie. Revolving around the true story of Bass Reeves the film opens out to a mellow tone, it drags on for what feels like an age before anything of note happens.
It’s when we focus on Bass Reeves and how strong of a character he must have been to be a black man of power in the aftermath of slavery.
Director West Miller makes a gripping and engaging western but like mentioned, it drags in many parts.
Musical scores are loudly played over the dialogue sometimes when they’re not needed and some of the camera shots here and there are very questionable indeed.
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Thankfully the films focus on characters makes for a more watchable experience. Seeing Reeves rise to become a Deputy Marshall is a testament to this mans heroism, sheer grit and determination to overcome the odds stacked against him.
Supported by a strong cast including David Gyasi (who is excellent) and Ron Perlman. What the film has in talent it sadly lacks in pacing, script and the ability to be original.
At times the movie is so painfully cliche’d that it feels like a TV Western.
Overall
With detailed reliance on practical effects and an interesting antagonist there’s a lot of positives to take from this feature.
Western fans will find a lot to salvage in Hell On The Border but it certainly won’t be for everyone!
Review by Sean Evans
