If you are looking for a really good western, you will currently find it at Netflix. The streaming service has the remake of a terrific classic in its catalogue.
In 1957, director Delmer Daves brought the western Count to Three and Pray to the cinema, which is now considered a classic of the genre. The story tells of a farmer who has to escort an outlaw to a railway station, from where he is transported to the state prison. 50 years later, the story was remade into a film.
Death Train to Yuma is the name of the remake in Germany. The new version was directed by James Mangold, who is known for Logan – The Wolverine, among other things. You can currently stream his Yuma remake on Netflix.
Western remake on Netflix: Christian Bale and Russell Crowe shine in Death Train to Yuma
Mangold’s Death Train to Yuma takes over large parts of the plot from the original. Once again we follow a simple man on his way to bring order to a world where killing is faster than forgiveness. Christian Bale takes on the role of farmer Dan Evans, who despite a war injury takes on the arduous journey. He is joined by Russell Crowe as outlaw Ben Wade.
Here you can watch the trailer for Death Train to Yuma:
Which film is better? Original or remake? Collider argues that Mangold’s approach is superior to the original – and for a reason. Death Train to Yuma brings more depth to the relationship between the disparate main characters. Evans and Wade emerge in the remake as multi-layered characters balancing on the fine line between enmity, friendship and mutual respect.
With Bale and Crowe, Mangold has found two outstanding actors for the roles. Either of them could easily carry a film like Death Train to Yuma on their shoulders alone. Together they are even better. Last but not least, neither actor plays himself as the star. Christian Bale and Russell Crowe are completely absorbed in their very opposite roles. Definitely worth a look for that.
