Almost has a 'film noir' feeling. Has 'heavier' drama than what current TV shows depict. More 'real life' atmosphere than 'bigger than life'atmosphere which is what a lot of westerns go for. The sentiment of the past few decades is easily reanimated to potency in the post 911 USA. I've noticed that in viewing westerns, especially the ones that were candidates for quick categorization by critics into 'template' scripts, the actions and characters now take on more mythic proportions. I think this has to do with the attack on the west in the 21st century. Mechanically has good mix of three plots but has some 'tv-esque'acting, however this is easy to ignore and enjoy the film anyway. Good mix of big stars seen in roles before they broke out and dominated the western/action film scene in Hollywood.