A Town Has Turned to Dust
A Town Has Turned to Dust

Movie spotlight

A Town Has Turned to Dust

1998
Movie
90 min
English

In a futuristic desert hamlet, a ruthless town boss lynches a falsely accused Native American teen, setting the stage for revolt and a clash with a troubled, drunken sheriff.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Randal KleiserGenres: Drama, Western

Plot Summary

In the late 19th century American West, a rancher is accused of murdering a local Native American boy. As tensions rise between the white settlers and the indigenous population, a seasoned lawman arrives to investigate the crime. He must navigate a web of prejudice, suspicion, and lies to uncover the truth before escalating violence erupts and consumes the small, isolated town.

Critical Reception

This made-for-television film received a mixed reception, with some critics praising its attempt to address sensitive themes of racism and justice in the Old West, while others found its execution to be somewhat formulaic and lacking in depth. The performances were generally seen as solid, particularly Elias Koteas in the lead role.

What Reviewers Say

  • The film tackles significant social issues but sometimes struggles with narrative complexity.

  • Performances are a strong point, with Elias Koteas delivering a compelling portrayal.

  • The Western setting provides a dramatic backdrop for the unfolding mystery and social commentary.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film was part of the CBS 'The Wonderful World of Disney' programming block, indicating its family-friendly, albeit dramatic, nature.

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