Blood on the Moon
Blood on the Moon

Movie spotlight

Blood on the Moon

1948
Movie
88 min
English

Down-and-out cowhand Jim Garry is asked by his old friend Tate Riling to help mediate a cattle dispute. When Garry arrives, however, it soon becomes clear that Riling has not been entirely forthright. Garry uncovers Riling's plot to dupe local rancher John Lufton out of a fortune. When Lufton's firecracker of a daughter, Amy, gets involved, Garry must choose between his old loyalties and what he knows to be right.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Director: Robert WiseGenres: Western, Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

A lone drifter, Jake McCandles, arrives in a frontier town and quickly finds himself caught between two feuding factions. He's hired by the wealthy rancher John Hampton, but soon discovers Hampton's ruthless methods and dubious intentions. McCandles develops a complicated relationship with Hampton's fiancée, Amy, and must navigate a treacherous path to survive and uncover the truth.

Critical Reception

Blood on the Moon was generally well-received by critics upon its release for its taut direction, strong performances, and atmospheric presentation. It is often cited as one of the better Westerns of its era, particularly for its psychological undertones and complex characters.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful narrative and noir-like atmosphere within a Western setting.

  • Robert Mitchum's gritty performance as the morally ambiguous protagonist is a standout.

  • Visually striking cinematography that enhances the film's mood.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

The film's striking black-and-white cinematography, particularly its use of shadows and stark landscapes, was highly praised and contributed to its atmospheric and often noir-influenced feel, setting it apart from many typical Westerns of the period.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

I can buy me that kind of friend for $75 a month and no questions asked. Blood on the Moon is directed by Robert Wise and is adapted from a Luke Short story by Lillie Hayward and Harold Shumante. It stars Robert Mitchum, Barbara Bel Gedd...