EDGE OF ETERNITY is a nice mix of modern-day crime thriller with classic Western tropes and supporting characters. Action man Cornel Wilde plays a deputy sheriff investigating a string of murders in and around the Grand Canyon, and he soon finds himself on the trail of a man who will stop at nothing to see his schemes come to fruition.
Obviously the biggest draw of the movie isn't the cast but the location. Arizona has never looked so good under this film's crisp cinematography, and the Grand Canyon cannot fail to seem rugged and magnificent, lending this film an air of toughness just from its presence alone. Plus we get the direction of Don Siegel, years before he became well known for his Clint Eastwood movies, and his hand is just as assured here.
Wilde is merely acceptable as the hero, although his character is not particularly likable. The plotting is a little strained in places with some important moments seeming rushed while other bits drag out (like some romantic-style sub-plots). It's not bad, though, and I love that 1950s colour. The high-rise action climax brings to mind the likes of NIGHTHAWKS. A youthful Jack Elam plays in support.
Obviously the biggest draw of the movie isn't the cast but the location. Arizona has never looked so good under this film's crisp cinematography, and the Grand Canyon cannot fail to seem rugged and magnificent, lending this film an air of toughness just from its presence alone. Plus we get the direction of Don Siegel, years before he became well known for his Clint Eastwood movies, and his hand is just as assured here.
Wilde is merely acceptable as the hero, although his character is not particularly likable. The plotting is a little strained in places with some important moments seeming rushed while other bits drag out (like some romantic-style sub-plots). It's not bad, though, and I love that 1950s colour. The high-rise action climax brings to mind the likes of NIGHTHAWKS. A youthful Jack Elam plays in support.