Whether to embrace or reject its conventions, that’s what comes to mind when watching Man Without A Star. King Vidor directed the film, which Borden Chase & D. D. Beauchamp adapted from Dee Linford's novel. Kirk Douglas, Jeanne Crain, Claire Trevor, William Campbell, and Richard Boone lead the cast. Russell Metty’s Technicolor photography showcases the Thousand Oaks area of California, accompanied by a vocal performance of the title song by Frankie Laine. Dempsey Rae (Douglas) is laid-back and enjoys life to the fullest, readily striking up a friendship with the impetuous young Jeff Jimson (Campbell). The two men wander into town after a close call with the authorities and secure jobs at a ranch belonging to the enigmatic Reed Bowman. Bowman’s eventual appearance reveals her to be a woman (Crain) harboring significant aspirations. As romantic feelings develop, so do conflicts, drawing the men into a range war. It's fairly standard fare within the genre of Westerns centered around range wars, but it rises above mediocrity despite a somewhat uneven beginning. Initially, Vidor and Douglas seem to be treating the movie as a comedy, with the actor overacting considerably. Campbell’s inexperienced portrayal further fuels this impression, raising questions about whether it might be a parody. However, once the men arrive in town and the women appear (Trevor exudes elegance, Crain radiates intensity), the film changes direction and gains an edgier quality; Vidor demonstrates skillful pacing. The story incorporates themes of generational change and evolving lifestyles, symbolized by barbed wire. Interesting camera work and striking photography contribute to a subtly charged atmosphere. Boone delivers another strong performance as the antagonist, and Jay C. Flippen’s supporting role is reliably good. It earns a 7/10.

Source on TMDB