Appaloosa (2008) – Cole & Hitch 2024 update
In the year 1882, the town of Appaloosa, nestled in the vast expanse of New Mexico, mirrors the classic setting of many Old West towns – a place where law and order are as scarce as its population. The town is besieged by the ruthless Bragg, a wealthy antagonist who considers himself above the law, leading a gang of ‘boys’ to terrorize the inhabitants. Frustrated by the lack of control, the town leaders decide to enlist the services of Virgil Cole (played by Ed Harris), a renowned gunman, to become their marshal. Accompanying Cole is his steadfast companion of many years, ex-soldier Everett Hitch (portrayed by Viggo Mortensen). Despite Cole driving a hard bargain, the desperate town leaders are willing to do whatever it takes to rid themselves of Bragg and his menacing gang.
As the two lawmen arrive in Appaloosa, the movie unveils the intricacies of their characters, values, and motivations. The narrative avoids clean stereotypes, presenting characters with complex and non-straightforward motivations, adding to the film’s delightful appeal. Harris’s square-jawed marshal, Virgil, is a straight-shooter proficient with a gun, yet he lacks the intellectual prowess of the typical Old West marshal and exhibits a lack of confidence outside his job. He adheres strictly to a code of not breaking the law, refusing to circumvent it. On the other hand, Viggo’s heroic, loyal, and humble Everett possesses his own set of rules, which, though not as rigid as Cole’s, guide his actions.
Viggo Mortensen was Ed Harris’s first and only choice for the role of Everett Hitch, based on their previous collaboration in “A History of Violence.” Mortensen’s sense of loyalty and commitment to the project impressed Harris, who appreciated Mortensen’s dedication once he agreed to the role. Mortensen, drawn to the subtle dialogue and the portrayal of the friendship between the two lawmen, remarked on the guarded nature of the characters.
Mortensen felt similarly, saying, “I like to ride horses, and I like Westerns, but there are a lot of bad ones. What set this one apart is just how the characters are a little more guarded.” Mortensen studied Fredric Remington drawings and other images of the American Old West to get into character and master the proper way to stand during a gunfight.
The dynamic between Cole and Hitch is explored, emphasizing the trust they share. Hitch’s honesty and bravery in confronting difficult truths contribute to Cole’s reliance on him. Their partnership originated in a standoff between Cole and another gunslinger, a confrontation where Cole and Hitch emerged as the survivors. Hitch, initially trained at West Point, chose a different path and crossed paths with Cole. Saving Cole’s life marked the beginning of their enduring friendship, with Cole reciprocating by providing Hitch with a purpose in life.
After spending 12 years bringing peace to lawless towns, the equilibrium shifts in Appaloosa, influenced significantly by the presence of Allison French (played by Renee Zellweger). The costumes in the film were meticulously designed by David Robinson, drawing inspiration from old photographs and Western antiques. The costumes strike a balance between fashion and realism, reflecting the practicalities of the era.
Robinson differentiates the styles of the two main characters, with Cole sporting a classic, no-nonsense look in a Prince Albert-style blazer black jacket and Hitch adopting a more down-to-earth, practical style with browns and greens with a leather pad sewn into his coat to help lessen the recoil of his powerful 8 gauge shotgun. The film pays attntion to historically accurate firearms, featuring Everett Hitch’s imposing eight-gauge, a rare and intimidating weapon known as a “punt gun” or a “market gun,” along with Virgil Cole’s trusty Colt 45, vintage 1873, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail in the production of “Appaloosa.”