The story follows two boys, one aligning himself with Quantrill and the other with Sherman. Andrew V. McLaglen directed Bandolero!, with Stanley Hough and James Lee Barrett responsible for the screenplay. The film features James Stewart, Dean Martin, Raquel Welch, and George Kennedy in leading roles. It's a Panavision/De Luxe color production, accompanied by music from Jerry Goldsmith and cinematography by William H. Clothier. The movie, beginning in Texas in 1867, essentially involves the main characters—rogue robbers with a certain charm—and a female lead on an uncomfortable journey. They are being chased by law enforcement, headed up by George Kennedy, while also contending with internal conflicts and encounters with ruthless Mexican bandits. A subplot concerning two brothers (Stewart and Martin) who chose different sides during the Civil War adds depth to their interactions, which are among the film's most engaging moments. Welch provides a touch of allure and sexual tension, while Kennedy’s stern lawman pursues both her and the outlaws, creating an undercurrent of suspense. The presence of threats like hanging and potential sexual assault heightens the drama, all set against a backdrop of characters with names such as July Johnson and Roscoe Bookbinder! McLaglen directs in a capable manner, allowing the well-known cast to perform without excessive theatrics—Stewart’s and Kennedy's characteristic gestures are particularly enjoyable. Goldsmith's score feels somewhat out of step with the film's time period, but it effectively builds tension. The scenery is beautiful, further solidifying Clothier's reputation as a Western genre icon. Considering the talent involved, Bandolero! ultimately falls short of its potential. However, the unusual combination of humor and serious themes makes for an interesting watch. Kennedy manages to take center stage from his more famous co-stars, which is enough to appreciate the cast and director working together comfortably. It earns a rating of 7/10.

Source on TMDB