Wily, Witty Western

Maverick is another one of those movies that I always wanted to see, but I never got the chance to until just now.  Westerns have always been one of my favorite genres, but sadly they are few and far between these days.  This is a movie that I loved from start to finish.

The film Maverick tells the story of Bret Maverick who needs money for a poker tournament.  The only problem is, he has to travel all over creation to get it, thus suffering in all sorts of challenges and mishaps before he finally gets to the big game.  This movie is packed with comedy, action and everything else you would expect from a Richard Donner flick.

Mel Gibson plays Bret Maverick with all the wit and charm that Gibson naturally possesses.  Just when the bad guys think they have Maverick right where they want him, he pulls a fast one on them out of nowhere.  He is also very particular about his clothes being clean and his name being pronounced properly, and when someone screws that up the bad guys are really in for it.

Jodie Foster plays Annabelle Bransford who is as beautiful as she is deceitful.  She will charm anybody she wants with her baby blue eyes...and then she will steal their wallet.  It is hard not to love Jodie Foster.  She has always been very particular about her roles, and that is very admirable.  She has great comedic timing in this film, so much so that I would love to see her do more in movies.

James Garner, who was the original Maverick on the TV series, plays Marshal Zane Cooper.  He is a man of honor and respect, and I have a feeling that Garner possessed those qualities in life.  Garner, much like Clint Eastwood, almost looks natural sporting a couple of pistols in his cowboy hat.  He commands authority with his presence, especially after he throws you over the side of the boat for cheating.

I have to be honest, I had no idea that Richard Donner directed this film.  This movie really does have all the humor, excitement and adventure that go along with his movies.  Donner flicks are so much fun to watch, and I think that is something that is lost on movies today.

Maverick is a gem of a movie.  They just do not make movies like this anymore.  It is a rowdy ride for two hours that you will not regret.  Keep your eyes peeled for a special cameo, too!