Irish Film Institute -MCCABE AND MRS MILLER

MCCABE AND MRS MILLER

Director: ROBERT ALTMAN

U.S.A. • 1971 • COLOUR • ANAMORPHIC • 121 MIN • NEW 35MM PRINT


ONE OF THE LATE, GREAT ROBERT ALTMAN’S VERY FINEST MOVIES, THIS IS ONE OF THE STRANGEST, MOST HAUNTING WESTERNS EVER MADE.
In questioning the myths that underpin American society, Altman’s poignant drama of pioneer life offers a poetic analysis of the roots of capitalism and violence. When entrepreneur John McCabe (Warren Beatty) arrives in the snowy, remote mining outpost of Presbyterian Church and sets up a casinocum- brothel with the help of Cockney madam Mrs Miller (Julie Christie), rumours fly concerning his prowess as a gunslinger. Proud and keen to impress his beautiful business partner, he does nothing to quell the gossip—attracting the notice of some ruthless businessmen. Both witty and engagingly melancholy (the Leonard Cohen songs on the soundtrack fit perfectly), Altman’s majestic film pits a vain but likeable braggart against forces far stronger than himself, building to a climax that rivals any shoot-out in Western history. Terrific performances and Vilmos Zsigmond’s superbly atmospheric camerawork (faithfully rendered in this new 35mm print) add to the enjoyment. —Geoff Andrew.

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