4 for Texas (1963)

Film Overview
"4 for Texas" is a 1963 American Western Comedy movie directed and co-written by Robert Aldrich. The production stars legendary stars such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Anita Ekberg, and Ursula Andress. Produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, the story mixes humor, romance, action, and a little bit of the wild west to develop an interesting and amusing spectacle.

Plot Summary
The story takes place in 1870 and revolves around 2 competing con men-- Zack Thomas (Frank Sinatra) and Joe Jarrett (Dean Martin), who both happen to be in the exact same stagecoach that is attacked by the outlaw Matson (Charles Bronson). Jarrett handles to get away with the taken $100,000, leaving Thomas behind. This rivalry between Thomas and Jarrett forms the central plot as they navigate through different schemes and confrontations.

After getting here in Galveston, Texas, Jarrett foils Thomas' plot to return the $100,000 and utilizes the money to buy a half stake in a saloon run by Maxine Richter (Ursula Andress). Seeing this, Thomas purchases the other half without Jarrett's knowledge, representing the start of their unintentional collaboration. Complicating matters further is the entrance of widow Elya Carlson (Anita Ekberg) who attempts to seduce the duo for their wealth.

Subplots and Twist
In the middle of the rivalry, Thomas and Jarrett need to deal with Prince George of the River gang, who extorts money from the saloon owners. Additionally, Thomas is continuously pursued by the relentless Matson, intending to reclaim the stolen money. As the story unfolds, Thomas and Jarrett gradually understand that unity serves them much better than rivalry. Together, they hold an extravagant opening of the saloon and ward off George's gang in a climactic run-in.

Conclusion
In the end, both Thomas and Jarrett end up discovering love-- Thomas with Maxine and Jarrett with Elya. "4 for Texas" offers an amazing blend of western drama with comical undertones and a sprinkling of romance. The intriguing rivalry-turned-friendship between Sinatra's and Martin's characters offers an engaging narrative laced with light-hearted humor.

Vital Reception
At the time of release, "4 for Texas" amassed mixed evaluations. Critics mentioned the film's twisty plot and funny take on western tropes as highlights, with recognition for the star power brought by Sinatra and Martin to the film. Overall, it is now typically remembered as a classic, mixing the comedic beauty of its leads within the rough-and-tumble setting of a spaghetti western.

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