Fast Action
If you can overlook this and a
few other faults (which isn't difficult
to do), you'll probably enjoy
"The Undefeated." The action is
neither profound nor particularly
original, but it is fast. Mr. McLaglen
has the ability to give palatability
to what is, in actuality, tired
material.
The dialogue in James Lee
Barrett's screenplay is typical western
- or should I say typical John
Wayne? The Duke has his usual
share of humorous quips that fit his
familiar character. Unfortunately,
we have the feeling throughout that
Mr. Barrett and Mr. McLaglen were
not quite sure whether to approach
their subject comically or dramatically.
This lack of commitment is
one of the film's serious drawbacks.
Mr. Wayne portrays himself
(who else?) with the natural screen
presence we have come to expect of
him. Mr. Hudson gives a polished
performance as the Southern gentleman-turned-fighter
without offering
much insight into the character.
The two stars are well-supported by
a cast that ranges from Tony
Aguilar as one of Juarez' soldiers to
pro-footballers Roman Gabriel and
Merlin Olson in their movie debuts.
