While Ox-Bow is a Western, it could very well be played out in any setting, and the story line is timeless. The frustration mounts as evidence builds against those accused of murder. It's that frustration of not being able to stop a group of people who are frustrated that the law doesn't do enough, and of having to choose sides when facing being shunned by a mob, convinced that what they're doing is right.
Over sixty years since this film premiered, the crux of the theme plays out in current events. People feel so angry with the state of current affairs that they don't even want to hear arguments to let justice take its course; they think justice these days is weak, and want things done swiftly. Upon hearing a portion of evidence, they feel that the accused must be guilty, and ignore compelling arguments to dig deeper, in order to seek the whole truth.
I planned to name-drop, but the cast was effective from top to bottom, who portrayed their characters' strengths or weaknesses rather well.
The close-up scene with Henry Fonda strikes a chord that resonates today. Fonda's position with Harry Morgan was a brilliant decision which adds to an emotional climax. Some might call it a bit heavy-handed, but I enjoyed it.
Over sixty years since this film premiered, the crux of the theme plays out in current events. People feel so angry with the state of current affairs that they don't even want to hear arguments to let justice take its course; they think justice these days is weak, and want things done swiftly. Upon hearing a portion of evidence, they feel that the accused must be guilty, and ignore compelling arguments to dig deeper, in order to seek the whole truth.
I planned to name-drop, but the cast was effective from top to bottom, who portrayed their characters' strengths or weaknesses rather well.
The close-up scene with Henry Fonda strikes a chord that resonates today. Fonda's position with Harry Morgan was a brilliant decision which adds to an emotional climax. Some might call it a bit heavy-handed, but I enjoyed it.