The Treasure Of Pancho Villa (1955)(dvd)

Synopsis: Macho posturing outweighs action in this lacklustre western set during the Mexican Revolution. A moralistic tale of greed and betrayal, it sees American mercenary Rory Calhoun and Latino patriot Gilbert Roland fall out over ideals while attempting to deliver the Federal gold they've stolen to rebel leader Pancho Villa.

But all the clunky, unnatural dialogue leaves them struggling to animate their sketchy characters, resulting in melodramatic performances — evident particularly in Calhoun's exchanges with underdeveloped love interest Shelley Winters. Director George Sherman's dull execution only highlights the script's flaws, ensuring that events are neither handsome nor exciting. Still, there's plenty to enjoy in the film's climax, not least Calhoun's unintentionally ludicrous address to the circling buzzards.

Cast: Rory Calhoun, Shelley Winters
Runtime: 92 min