This Western feels like a modern adaptation of Dante’s Inferno, depicting two men journeying through an earthly version of Hell. The film portrays this "Hell" through the actions of a cruel and disturbed character portrayed by Nehemiah Persoff. John Wayne plays Jake, a Texas ranger known for his straightforward nature and integrity, while Stuart Whitman embodies Regret, a charming man who consistently finds himself in difficult situations despite avoiding them. Ina Balin appears as Regret’s romantic interest and later serves as a guide into this dark world, accompanied by Michael Ansara and Richard Devon. It's notable that the actors were cast against type at the time – Ansara typically played virtuous roles, while Devon usually portrayed less admirable characters. Ansara takes on an even more sinister role than Persoff’s antagonist. Lee Marvin receives prominent billing despite having a smaller part than usual. The film’s humor and appeal elevate it to a near-classic status. It features one of John Wayne's most memorable lines: "Don't make a habit of saying that too often, and once more will be too often," which stands out as particularly cool among his many iconic phrases. Initially, Jake apprehends Regret, but circumstances force Jake to lead Regret through a region resembling Hell, allowing Regret an opening for escape. Later, he unexpectedly encounters Regret while undercover, investigating Crow, played by Lee Marvin. The Western’s "Divine Comedy" explores the reactions of various supporting characters within this human-created Hell—McBain, Crow, Esteban, Gordo, and others—and examines whether they will resist or defend it.

Source on TMDB