High Noon did not became a classic Western flick because it exemplifies the conventions of Western movies. Indeed, the constant action, horse chases, stage coach heists, bar room brawls and expansive scenery expected in a Western film are conspicuously absent from the tightly reigned action in this movie. The suspense, however, is all the greater for building below the surface.
The opening scenes beautifully introduce the tone of the entire film. We see three men meet up in the country side. Initially, it is reasonable assumption that these are the “good guys.” (This is a Western, after all, and though it breaks other conventions, there are still “good guys” and “bad guys.”) As this extended sequence progresses, without one line of dialog, we notice various elements of their characters which call into question what side these men are on. Their clothes are torn and dirty, they are not groomed well, and their manners are somewhat coarse. By the time we see them riding together, it is clear they have some definite purpose, and we suspect that it is a sinister one. (more…)
