Desperado: Avalanche at Devil's Ridge (1988)

Intro
"Desperado: Avalanche at Devil's Ridge" is a 1988 TV motion picture that belongs to a series of 5 western movies directed by Richard Lang and produced by the NBC network. The film stars noteworthy stars, consisting of Alex McArthur, Hoyt Axton, Rod Steiger, and Emmy award-winning star L.Q. Jones.

Plot Summary
In the film, Alex McArthur repeats his role as Duell McCall, a cowboy with a good heart but a somewhat-harsh external façade. He is on an objective to prove his innocence after being wrongly accused of a criminal offense. Unlike the common chaotic environment of the majority of westerns from that period, Avalanche at Devil's Ridge has a more laid-back but interesting plot. McCall's journey has him crossing courses with a selection of characters, each providing a mini-adventure of their own, improving the general plot and his quest for justice.

Visitor Characters
One of the significant trademarks of the "Desperado" series is its hosting of a range of visitor entertainers, and "Avalanche at Devil's Ridge" is no exception. Rod Steiger portrays Silas Slaten, the jagged town mayor who's also the principal antagonist, while Hoyt Axton plays Sheriff Price.

Film Highlights
Some significant highlights of "Desperado: Avalanche at Devil's Ridge" consist of Duell McCall's encounters with Silas Slaten and Sheriff Price. These exchanges typically end up in gunfights, standing off with their wills simply as much as their guns. The scenes typically climax with suspenseful shootouts, befitting the traditional western story.

Another thing this film is remembered for is the captivating relationship in between Duell McCall and Nora Sweeney, played by Alice Adair. Their pairing throughout the movie provides a romantic subplot, despite the overwhelming theme of vengeance and justice.

Visuals and Scenery
Aesthetically, "Avalanche at Devil's Ridge" does a remarkable job in creating stunning western landscapes, using its shooting location in St. George, Utah. The film inspires a sense of fond memories for the old west with its climatic use of wide shots of plains and little, dusty towns.

Conclusion
Overall, "Desperado: Avalanche at Devil's Ridge" is a distinct and amusing western. It is not just about gunfights or horseshoe bending stress; it provides an appealing story filled with action, love, and a reasonable share of drama. It is a gratifying watch, specifically for those who appreciate the standard components of western films. The movie not only brings the rough and hard cowboy to life but also imbues him with depth of character while incorporating various layers of story - making it a traditional motion picture of the late 80s duration. The suspenseful storyline and exceptional performances continue the legacy of the "Desperado" series, making it an enjoyable, beneficial watch.

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