I’m not a very big fan of Kevin Costner. Ever since he won all those awards for Dances With Wolves, I view him as a self-important gas bag. See Waterworld and The Postman for proof. Better yet, don’t.

That said, I really wouldn’t be surprised if the above is how he picks his projects. These are the only three genres where he seems to be of any use.

But every once in a while, there are flashes of brilliance and I’m reminded why he won all those awards in the first place.

Cami and I went to see Open Range on Friday and it is easily one of the best movies I’ve seen all year.

The film is a little slow going at first, but it establishes the vastness of the American West with panoramic views you can positively drink in.

The performances aren’t half bad, either. For once, Costner plays someone a little shadier. Robert Duvall delivers a great turn as an old salt cowboy with a trouble-making streak.

I was particularly amazed by the final gun battle. It’s not choreographed like so many other shoot-outs. Men stumble, the miss, they scatter like cockroaches. And the blast of those revolvers sounds like a thunderclap. The violence in those scenes is jaw-dropping in their brutality and realism.

The romance between Costner’s character and that of Annette Bening’s seemed a little forced, but you kind of go along with it. Also, there were two farewell scenes between the two characters when the first one would have worked just fine. The second one is tacked on for that “ride into the sunset” finale.

All in all, it was a great film. It may not look like your cup of tea, but it comes highly recommended by yours truly. Check it out.

Posters are continuing to be shipped out. I’ve had two orders this week with a third payment by mail all lined up.

Don’t miss your opportunity to order one before they’re gone. Once the stock is depleated, I’m not making any more!

Just a friendly reminder from me to you!..