Movie spotlight
Harry Tracy, Desperado
By the turn of the 20th century, Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid, Billy the Kid and virtually all of the West's legendary outlaws are either dead or in jail pending execution. Well, all, except train robber and escape artist extraordinaire, Harry Tracy. As the last survivor of the Wild Bunch, Tracy pulls off a series of profitable robberies before making his way west to Portland, Oregon, in search of Catherine Tuttle -- a judge's daughter who has captured his heart. But on the way, Tracy is betrayed, arrested, and imprisoned. However, no jail can hold him for long and after making his escape, Tracy becomes the target of the largest manhunt in the history of North America.
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Plot Summary
In the waning days of the Old West, notorious outlaw Harry Tracy makes a daring escape from prison. Hounded by relentless lawmen and haunted by his violent past, Tracy finds himself increasingly isolated and desperate. He forms an uneasy alliance with a fellow fugitive, seeking refuge and perhaps a final chance at redemption, but the path ahead is fraught with peril and betrayal.
Critical Reception
Harry Tracy, Desperado received mixed reviews, with critics often highlighting Bruce Dern's intense performance while finding the narrative somewhat uneven. The film is noted for its gritty portrayal of a notorious outlaw and its attempt to delve into the psychological complexities of a man on the run.
What Reviewers Say
Bruce Dern delivers a powerful and unsettling performance as the titular outlaw.
The film offers a gritty and realistic depiction of life on the run in the Old West.
While the acting is strong, the pacing and narrative structure can be inconsistent.
Google audience: Audience reception for Harry Tracy, Desperado is not widely documented, but the film is generally recognized for its strong lead performance and its unvarnished look at a notorious historical figure.
Fun Fact
Bruce Dern drew inspiration for his portrayal of Harry Tracy from interviews with individuals who had spent time in prison.
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