Episode 118: Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973)

I revisit Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, a film I saw more than 20 years ago and remembered as a murky, confusing mess. This time around I found a beautifully shot and atmospheric western, with fantastic landscapes, a great supporting cast, James Coburn’s excellent performance and Bob Dylan’s music perfectly suited to the film. My biggest problem is Kris Kristofferson as Billy the Kid. He’s so laid-back that I never quite believed the character, and I think the film would have worked better with a more dynamic performance.