Open Range

Kevin Coster makes an authentic western with Open Range. That is true because the subject, free-grazing and its legality, is one that could only exist in the West. The subject is so dear to the West that critics took exception to it having any modern meaning. Costner stays true to the genre by filming the stoy with a picturesque focus. Large prairie highlights most of the simple story. I hadn't seen this used normally in a Western since the 1940s. It is easy to mimic techniques of the past, but Costner utilizies an unpopular format of storytelling for the Western to appropriately tell this story. His dedication is commendable. Costner's dedication is true until the final shoot out when he mixes in modern editing techniques to increase the energy in the action. This change doesn't ruin the film though. Too much of it is good and pleasant. Costner also gives himself a depth role and reminds everyone he can act. Annette Benning has always been an underrated actress and she makes a classical role feel true and Robert Duvall is always a breath of honesty. He not only brings conviction to his performances, but textures his roles with experience. For the character of an aging rancher, experience is the perfect ingrediant.