The lines "You’re leaving’ on the next train. I own the sheriff! I own this town! I own every man in it!" set the stage for what unfolds. Matt Morgan (Kirk Douglas) and Craig Belden (Anthony Quinn) were once close friends, but their lives took different turns. Morgan became a lawman, establishing a home with his Indian wife and raising a son. Belden, on the other hand, amassed wealth as a cattle baron and essentially runs the town of Gun Hill. After Morgan’s wife is brutally raped and murdered, he follows a single lead: a saddle belonging to Belden. Initially, he hopes the saddle was stolen, but it soon becomes clear that Rick (Earl Holliman), Belden's son, committed the terrible crime. However, when Morgan attempts to arrest Rick, he discovers that Belden and the town under his control—with the exception of Belden’s girlfriend, Linda (Carolyn Jones)—don’t want him to leave on the Last Train From Gun Hill. Directed by John Sturges (The Magnificent Seven), Last Train From Gun Hill is based on a story by Les Crutchfield and adapted by James Poe (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof). Charles Lang handled the photography, and Dimitri Tiomkin composed the score. What immediately comes to mind after watching this film is that the storyline has been explored more effectively in other Westerns. As such, Sturges’ film offers nothing particularly new. Just two years earlier, Delmer Daves delivered the far superior 3:10 To Yuma. Nevertheless, if a story possesses strong themes, there's reason to revisit familiar territory. And Sturges’ film is well-made overall. Combining psychological elements with action sequences, and benefiting from a generally strong cast, it proves to be an enjoyable Western. It does fall short of delving into the darker aspects that it could have. In fact, Sturges—a capable director—seems overly concerned with keeping the movie lighthearted for a broad audience, which also applies to Tiomkin’s score. The upbeat music during scenes meant to build tension is somewhat jarring! While Lang's photography is visually appealing, particularly his use of wide shots in the desolate landscapes, it doesn't fully compensate. It may not be the best example of the genre, but it’s still worth recommending for fans who appreciate a man determined to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It earns a rating of 7/10.

Source on TMDB