W2TCH

The Villain (1979)

1979 • 1h 29m • Comedy, Western • PG
On October 1, 2026
#22535
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All reviews

bensonmum2 on The Villain

2/10 · Dec 16, 2017

A not particularly bright cowboy, Handsome Stranger (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger), is providing protection to Charming Jones (Ann-Margret) as she journeys across the West with a locked chest full of money. Cactus Jack (Kirk Douglas), an aging outlaw, has been contracted to steal that very chest. Cactus Jack devises one elaborate scheme after another in his pursuit of the treasure, but each endeavor backfires spectacularly. I’ve encountered numerous descriptions likening The Villain to a live-action cartoon featuring Wile E. Coyote. While I can understand where those comparisons come from, Wile E. Coyote's adventures are genuinely amusing and well-crafted. Cactus Jack’s story, on the other hand, is comprised of unsuccessful comedic attempts and represents one of the most lackluster experiences I’ve had recently. The humor simply didn’t connect with me. I sensed I was in for a rough time early on when Cactus Jack engaged in a conversation with his horse. It was truly unpleasant. Perhaps a six-year-old might find some of Jack's antics amusing, but nothing elicited even the slightest smile from me. I felt incredibly bored throughout. Without any vehicles to be seen, director Hal Needham appears uncomfortable and out of place. Regarding the performances, I chose to watch The Villain because of Schwarzenegger; however, in 1979, he was a very inexperienced actor. He seemed rigid and awkward during most scenes. The stunning Ann-Margret almost makes the film worthwhile simply for her presence, but even appreciating her beauty becomes tiresome after a while. As for Douglas, his performance was disappointing! It’s clear that comedy wasn't his forte. Strother Martin stood out as the best part of the cast, and he only appeared in a small role; his few minutes on screen were easily the strongest aspect of the film.

Source on TMDB