Cinema
The Grey Fox
Phillip Borsos · 1982
Synopsis
In 1901, Bill Miner, a stagecoach robber, leaves San Quentin prison after thirty-three years. The world has changed. At his sister's, he falls out with his brother-in-law and picks oysters with no liking for the work. In 1903, a screening of The Great Train Robbery gives him the idea of holding up trains. After a failed hold-up in the United States, he hides in British Columbia, at Kamloops, under a false name. There he meets a photographer, Kate Flynn, and befriends the sergeant of the mounted police, while a Pinkerton agent tracks him.
Context
The film tells the story of a real man, Bill Miner, nicknamed the gentleman bandit. The role went to Richard Farnsworth, a stuntman for some thirty years before moving in front of the camera; Jackie Burroughs plays the photographer. The music is by Michael Conway Baker, on a theme by Paddy Moloney, with the Chieftains. Produced by Peter O'Brian, the film cost about four and a half million dollars and was shot in British Columbia and in Washington State.
Who it is for
Ninety-two minutes, a slow western; the pleasure lies in the lead actor's face and in the landscapes.
Prizes and reception
Seven Genie Awards, including best film and best director, for a first feature shot at the age of twenty-seven.
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