It’s a commendable effort from Raimi, though it barely manages to rise above mediocrity. The Western is an especially difficult genre to revive today, particularly considering the high bar set by films like *Dances With Wolves* and *Unforgiven*. However, overcoming those hurdles seems minor compared to what director Sam Raimi asks of viewers in his attempt at this style of film. A female gunslinger appears, portrayed by Sharon Stone, but her casting feels off. She’s undeniably attractive and can convey a sullen demeanor better than many actresses working now, yet she doesn't possess the necessary sense of threat—a degree of believable ruthlessness that could have elevated the movie. We accept and anticipate the vulnerability she displays, but to truly succeed in the male-dominated town of Redemption, she needs to be convincing as someone formidable. And Stone simply isn’t capable of it. The film does possess several strengths though. The plot, despite being somewhat contrived, makes for a diverting and enjoyable experience, and the ensemble cast is full of recognizable and talented performers (including Gene Hackman in a cameo as Little Bill's ghost, alongside Russell Crowe, Leonardo DeCaprio, Keith David, Pat Hingle & Lance Henriksen). Also noteworthy is Dante Spinotti’s consistently impressive cinematography, and Sam Raimi clearly has an eye for detail, with his signature zooming shots proving exciting during the action sequences—his influences from classic Spaghetti Westerns are amplified by Alan Silvestri's score. Despite this bold undertaking, and recognizing that those involved tried something new, *The Quick & The Dead* isn’t quite fast enough to overcome the central casting error. 6/10

Source on TMDB