The Professionals (1966)
While the Italians were redefining the western genre in the late 60s, the American could still make solid westerns that weren’t completely old fashioned. The story here is very straight forward with four men recruited to rescue the wife of a wealthy American rancher, who has been captured by Mexican rebels. The four men each have their own special skillset they put to good use. It gets close to competence porn, in the positive sense of that term. It is very well executed, tightly paced and with some interesting twists along the way that opens up the plot a bit more than just a simple rescue mission. I especially liked how tactical the fights were laid out, showing that planning, using terrain as an advantage and calm execution ofthe plan beats riding fast with all guns blazing. Combined with some beautiful scenery and good performances from the cast, makes for a very recommendable classic entertaining western.
Rating: 4