Shane is a classic 1953 American Western film starring Alan Ladd, Van Heflin
and Jean Arthur. Its Oscar-winning cinematography was by Loyal Griggs.
Acclaimed director George Stevens' legendary rendition of the quintessential
Western myth earned six Academy Award nominations, and made Shane one of the
classics of the American cinema. The story brings Alan Ladd, a drifter and
retired gunfighter, to the assistance of a homestead family terrorised by a
wealthy cattleman and his hired gun (Jack Palance). In fighting the last
decisive battle, Shane sees the end of his own way of life. Mysterious, moody
and atmospheric, the film is enhanced by the intense performances of its
splendid cast.
On AFI's 100 Greatest Movies list; Shane is AFI's #16 hero. “Shane.
Shane. Come back!” is #47 on AFI's 100 Greatest Movie Quotes list. #53 on
AFI's 100 Most Inspiring Movies list.
Aspect Ratio: 1:37:1
Awards
- Won Oscar for Best Cinematography
- Nominated for Oscars for Best Picture & Best Director (+ 3 other
nominations)
- Nominated for BAFTA Film Award, Best Film from any Source
- Nominated for DGA Award, Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Motion
Pictures
- Won NBR Awards for Top 10 Films, Best Director
Shane Reviews
“Shane isn't just one of the best movies of its genre or decade –
it's one of the finest films ever made.” Film4
“…This isn't just a western; it's a masterwork in which every little
detail seems to contribute to the intensity in the air.” Metro Times
“It's the western styled as Arthurian legend, flawlessly cast,
undeniably splendid…Ladd, who was never better as the doomed hero, and who
gives one of the best performances ever seen in ANY western, knows he is a
creature of the past and that he cannot escape his reputation as a hired gun.
Although the film is often brutal, there is such a positive sense of morality
displayed here that Shane should be seen by the whole family…Ladd learned a
bitter lesson from SHANE. Then in the process of leaving Paramount for Warners,
the former did no lobbying to earn him a Best Actor nomination. Yet the legacy
of character he left behind gave this lonely, taciturn man immortality among
children who see this movie.” TV Guide
“Shane is one of the top western films. If you haven't seen it, you're
in for a treat. If you have seen it, it's time to see it again.” DVD
Verdict
“..Yes, the picture works on that level, and on that level it was
nominated as one of the best films of 1953. But if it only worked on that
level, it would have grown dated, like "High Noon” and certain other classic
Westerns. There are intriguing mysteries in “Shane,” puzzles and challenges,
not least in the title character and the way he is played by Alan Ladd…"
4 out of 4 stars, Roger Ebert
“…transformed the American cowboy saga, introducing psychological
elements into the usual gunplay.” Movie Metropolis
“Wyoming's scenic splendors against which the story is filmed are
breathtaking. Sunlight, the shadow of rain storms and the eerie lights of night
play a realistic part in making the picture a visual treat.” Variety
“Shane is on nearly everyone's shortlist of great movie
Westerns…Though the showdowns are exciting, and the story simple but
involving, what most people will remember about this movie is the friendship
between the stoical Shane and the young son of the farmers. The kid is played by
Brandon De Wilde, an amazing child performer; his parting scene with Shane is
guaranteed to draw tears from even the most stony-hearted moviegoer.And speaking
of stony hearts, Jack Palance made a sensational impression as the evil
gunslinger sent to clean house–he has fewer lines of dialogue than he has
lines in his magnificently craggy face, but he makes them count. The
photography, highlighting the landscape near Jackson Hole, Wyoming, won an
Oscar.” –Robert Horton