This movie is by far not only the best western ever but the best movie ever ,its the only movie you could look at over and over again and never get tired of it. all the hollywood movies these days are a joke.
Leone's movies are such cinematic treasures, camera work, lighting, staging, sound, characters, acting, wardrobe... so much goes into a work of art such as this. Excellent presentation Wolfcrow...BRAVO!
Beautiful analysis. Saves the cost of film studies.I grew up in the movie business. My father was Rex Harrison. Your take on Leone's visual mastery and the principles of his style is superb.
Sadly, Leone is no longer with us, but he did leave us with one final masterpiece _Once Upon a Time in America_ (1984) scored by his longtime collaborator and friend Ennio Morricone. Between them they've created some of the most memorable cinematic experiences beginning with _A Fistful of Dollars_ in 1964.
When Cheyenne is holding the lantern up close to Harmonica... I love that the shape of the lantern perfectly lines up with Cheyennes face down to his cheekbones. Like that specific lantern was chosen just so it could be lined up in that shot
Always remember, there are no accidental scenes in movies. Everything is there for a reason. Every prop, every item, every background. All carefully selected.
I consider Leone one of the very best of directors, especially his visuals. I'm also very big on Kubrick for similar reasons. It feels like each shot is an individual piece of artwork. Thank you for explaining some of the terminology and what the director is delivering to the viewer in each shot. Leone in particular had the unique idea of shooting a film to an existing score, and Ennio Morricone is about the best in the film business (in my opinion as a composer). Once Upon a Time in the West remains in my top 10 favorites, and I must have watched it a hundred times over the last 35 years, and I discover something new each time. More of us "common folk" should learn about the arts, and film in particular, as it heightens one's appreciation when we learn how a great film is made.
i would bet everything i own..you dont even know the names of any great director...of hollywoods golden age...one of your favorite directors...sure when you dont have a clue who the great ones were!!...lol
I swear I have watched this movie six times in the last week, with the lock down and all. I look forward to the next time to find out new aspects of Lione's genius! Something I wonder about; Two scenes in the very beginning. The first was Jack Elam and the fly. The very first time I saw this, I laughed my butt off as he tried to shoo the fly away with as little effort as possible! Then, I would have bet the farm that he was gonna blow that freakin' fly to kingdom come! But, no! He captures it and, for all practical purposes, it looked like he was going to keep it! Only the obviously serious nature of why he was there made him release it. The second was in the very next scene. After Henry Fonda's arrival, and with the massacre at the farm, and especially the slaughter of the youngest son, the contrast of these two killers was gut wrenching.. One couldn't hurt a fly, literally. The other repeatedly took pleasure in destroying boys before their prime! Does anyone else have any observations about either or both of these scenes?
This being one of my favorite films of all time , I appreciate a different perspective and insightful analysis. The hidden depth of genius isn't always so obvious to the near sighted.
Also, Sergio took his time on each shot. Gave you a chance to soak in what the atmosphere of each shot felt like..... The tension he built up is what makes him a legend to me....
I have never learned more about film making in 22 minutes in my life. In fact I don't think I have learned as much about anything. Pure genius from wolfcrow and of course the master Sergio himself. Nobody does it better.
I love everything about this scene, especially how both sides of the tavern are almost completely in shadow. It lends a sense of mystery and potential danger, especially when Cheyenne makes his entrance.
It's always the misinterpretation of facts like this makes thing look harder than they are. Leone was not thinking so calculating while shooting. It was rather a genuine child soul play.
@Candies Freeman... So what's the basis of your assessment there? I much rather believe this is a highly calculated and meticulously planned and executed scene, just as the video author says. Can you make an equally eloquent case to support your basically complete denial? Or is it just a random clown comment to say something different?
"Inside those three dusters, there were three men, inside those three men ,there are now three bullets". Excellent choice man, Leone was a true master. As for the drinks ,my opinion is that it is mainly practical. You would not expect a woman to drink, while Sam had to do something instead of just standing and the need for drink for Sayenne shows he has been through a lot. The heat shows on the sweat on their faces ,the dust and the warm colors in all the scenes. What is interesting is how often they have to cover their mouths. To me this is done for us to focus on their eyes (again very Sergio Leone) and add mystery at the same time. With Charles Bronson keeping his mouth from sight you can't tell if he is smiling or not. Same thing with the drinks none of which comes in a transparent glass. We could go for ages about the detail on this film ,nothing was put randomly and for sure this story was a perfectly written one.
Please do the bar scene in 'For a Few Dollars More" where Lee Van Cleef Lights a match on the hump back of Klaus Kinski in the tavern. Its one of my favorite scenes of all the spaghetti westerns.
Problem with Leone, is... He was a true artist... and like many arts, you need to be educated, initiated to completely appreciate the artwork. And the general public is completely unaware of all the magic behind. OUATITW is my favorite movie since I saw it as a kid, I've seen it countless time, but the more I watch it, the more I understand WHY it's my favorite movie: the master of the art. The genius in story telling with a camera and music. I really have tears watching it, not only because of the story and how it's told, but really because I see the art master work. The scene where Jill is in the station and the camera goes over the roof is exceptional. I have shivers watching it. All the editing is top. ANY frame picked randomly is a great photography composition, like a painting. This is the best movie ever, a showcase of Leone genius, a "masterclass" in filmmaking. I've never saw another movie with such precise work. OUATITW is NOT a western, it's an epic "opera" telling things far deeper that the "simple vengeance story"... It's about mankind, it's about time changes, it's about one new world getting over one old world. It's about following dreams, following revenge, following greed, following hope... And it's so beautiful, and of course the score is fantastic. And as most people forget, Leone DIRECTED Morricone for the score, Sergio is why this score is at this level. Best film ever.
I really wish you'd do a breakdown of the final confrontation. I've always loved how Frank blinks frequently and even looks around as if expecting an ambush; Harmonica never looks away and seemingly never blinks.
WOW. I knew there was a system to his movie making. Maybe that's why his films Still stand today!!! Keep pointing out things. Proof that today's generation appreciate the Man's work.
Best movie ever made, the best music score that was ever written, outstanding cinematography, one of the most beautiful women that ever walked the face of the Earth, two of the best male actors, great acting, great story, masterfull directing. 'nuf said.
Outstanding work.......done by Sergio Leone...... tremendous knowledge about making of films... camera... lighting... music...and characters......... locations..... awesome.
Leone was the son of a director and an actress, and made his career "the old way", with years spent as assistant director and "director of the second unit" (the unit that filmed the less important scenes) in many major movies. First than being a gifted artist and an innovator he was an extremely skilled artisan. When he started to direct his own movies, he knew all the tricks.
Once upon a Time in The West, not only is the best western of all times, but it is also one of the best movies of all times, that will stand the test of time and become a great classic just like the Charlie Chaplin movies. We all agreed. Sergio Leone was a Genius with an incredible sense of cinematography, suspens and drama, who not only was ahead of his time, but is certainly one of the best movie maker that will ever exist. We all agree. But where I really want all of us to agree, is about the quality and in-depth research of this short video commenting this scene of the movie. This is absolutely a great analysis of the scene with all aspects of it explained and put into the context of the movie and the meaning of each little detail for the understanding of the whole story. Not only did you show Sergio Leone's genius but also every little detail that makes up a great scene. BRAVO! this is really a great job.
Wonderful movie. The music, scenery, actors, camera man and everyone else. No wonder there are so many holes in the tavern roof and side walls with so few people actually drinking there. Very good review
this looked very authentic. very detailed. from the clapboard construction to the horse stalls. nothing like the neat and clean bar rooms you see in other westerners.
This is an amazing movie, IMO, Sergio Leone's created it through his own artistic sense, his dramatic way of telling the story, and his technical ability to direct, edit it and put it together. It was done in a style that only Sergio Leone could do, and it's a masterpiece.
I think that the main lesson to learn here is that movie scenes need time to develop and sink in. There's no need to have an extreme rush with overcomplicating things and flood the viewers with special effects. If just modern movie makes could understand that scenes like this might be what makes a movie memorable. And whenever you see a movie - all those details with people in the background and perspectives is what can make you feel satisfied when the movie has ended and sometimes you want to watch it again just because there are so much secondary details that you may have missed.
And then you discover more each time you watch it and learn more about the characters, and pretty soon you can't wait to watch it again! It was the third or fourth time that I watched this treasure that I realized the awesome contrast of Jill and Cheyenne. She, the most incredibly beautiful, self aware, driven woman in a strange, yet familiar world; surrounded by men, but in charge of a predetermined dream she needed help to understand. All three "gun-men" helped sharpen her awareness of the future she had in store for her. The greatest impact on her decision to stay, I think, was made by Frank. She became more resolved after Harmonica bought the land, but the visit from the rat bastard, Frank, convinced her to see her husband's dream through to fruition. Jill's time spent with the crafty, scruffy bandit, Cheyenne, layed the groundwork for, I believe, the future success of Sweetwater.. There are so many details in this great movie that are hidden from discovery until one has seen it at least once before. For me, I look forward to the next viewing!
I was 12, at the Highway 39 drive-in in Huntington Beach, and with my parents when I saw this movie. I must have tortured them as I remember asking a million questions. It was just so different from any western I had ever seen. I remember the lack of dialog threw me. It was too complex; nothing in this film was identifiable to my inexperienced frame of reference. But that didn't stop it from becoming one of my favorite films. It made a huge impression on me
I remember an English teacher discussing a poem I thought I liked, only to learn under her tutelage my liking only skimmed the surface of words to love. You did the same for me with this movie. Thank you.
NOV 2018 - Keep GOING - there are always NEW students out here wanting to unlock the secrets of cinematic mastery. Thank you very much for ALL this work (BETTER than anything our 'teacher' has produced!) 😎🏆
Brother you nailed it with degrees of depth that blew me away. Please continue your work. Your work should appear as commentary clips on TCM or other platforms. Keep it up!
Not only did your refined taste do justice for this great film that I dearly cherish, but your product itself came out as eloquent as the very piece that is its subject!! My most sincere applauds!!!!
The only film I have ever seen that is a better film the second time around....Charles Bronson should have gotten an Academy Award if only for the fight with Fonda at the end,what he gives the viewer through his face and eyes is astounding,hate,love for his brother,his life long quest for revenge and his solace at getting the revenge as he relishes seeing Frank die after he killed him....absolutely astounding without saying a word.
Saw this classic film in the drive-in theater when I was fifteen years old, it made an impression! This discussion of set and setting, the disciplined use of angle of view, of chiaroscuro, of depth created by motions and the significance of meticulous details as well as depth of field rings true as brass. Brilliant analysis of technical deatails that are truly the brushwork in this painting. Was always struck by the music, owned the soundtrack... but I learned a good bit from your points on the sounds, music and diagetics as well. Thank you ever so much.
This reminds me of the book reports in high school and college English class, using footnotes from other sources to back your theories and ideas about what the characters symbolized and their significance. Very well explained. Something that usually goes unnoticed. Gives a good sense of what the directors are thinking as to how to keep the audience fixed on the scenes.
This is the first video I have ever seen of yours. I plan on going into your video log and watching more. I remember first seeing this scene and, I made a mental note that it was one of the most complex scenes I had seen in a western. The lighting and set were...overwhelming with atmosphere. Your analysis really helped me understand even more of that depth.
Thanks for making this. I've always felt that this scene was the original Creature Cantina from Star Wars (1977, 9 years later). Also, I thought it was worth nothing the sympathy Cheyenne shows for Harmonica when he sees the bullet wound.
extremely concise and well narrated analysis of this picture. i have regarded this and the GoodBadUgly as the finest westerns ever directed. each a Leone masterpiece. its the telling of the story that is captivating. each time i watch, something more is learned. I contrast these movies with others of the time. if i were to watch them today, the others are campy and somewhat lame, but Leone's films only grow in their power to captivate. BTW, Hank was an awesome villain, a side of him we never really got to see in his career. RIP HF, CB, JR and SL.
Along with each characters musical motif Leone gives Harmonica a special visual motif in the way he enters and exits edge of frame during most of the film.
This is the best western ever made watch it every couple of years. Glad the directors cut was released to show the greatness of Leone’s work, the Hollywood producers really messed this movie up initially by reducing the run time so that the story was compromised and made little sense until the directors cut came out.
I am a huge Sergio Leone fan and of the Western genre. I love this scene too but my favorite is the opening....arrival of Harmonica. His wide landscapes and extreme close ups make it a masterpiece in my view. I really enjoyed your analysis. This scene also leaves the audience with many questions about who will do what later in the film..building mystery and interest. The firearms themselves also add to each characters personality....and Harmonica never uses a holster or flaunts his Colt SAA until it's important to do so....and yet you already know he's a proficient gunfighter. Leone also shows gun angles in his shots too. Truly nothing like it these days.
YOUR ANALYSIS WAS EXTREMELY INFORMATIVE .I am a huge leoni fan and a huge fan of this movie.The best movies are a "place that you go" the tavern scene from once upon a time is especially a place that iv'e gone many a time. Thanks for explaining I think you are spot-on
Excellent presentation, extremely educational - I always wondered why this movie, this scene, in particular, captured me so completely. It was electric. Now I know why - thank you.
This is a great breakdown. I've seen this scene several times in film school and again in workshops, but it was always just hey, check this great scene... but this really explains what's going on
A very well thought-out essay video on a beautiful film. Just one nitpick-y thing: at 11:47 I think those sounds are technically diegetic because while they're offscreen, they do have a source in the world of the film. That would just be offscreen sound. I love the analysis of the close-ups and long shots and their effects on the story!
Thank you! I wrestled with the same question about diegetic sound, but then I asked myself: Any sound introduced into the film can be diagetic, once it's been introduced! Now it's part of the film. So in this case no one has seen the horses or bullets - even during the exterior shots prior to the scene. So I decided to follow the definition strictly. I'm not saying I'm right, just explaining my decision.
I think the disco narwhal is right here. Since all the characters react to the sound, the sound has a source in the world of the film, meaning it is diegetic :). Otherwise out standing video ! Please keep making more, it's quite rare to see this level of film technical analysis on youtube. Thank you for your work !
Ha! I commented before reading the comments, I'll repost here (from film sound dot org): Diegetic sound: Sound whose source is visible on the screen or whose source is implied to be present by the action of the film: voices of characters sounds made by objects in the story music represented as coming from instruments in the story space ( = source music) Diegetic sound is any sound presented as originated from source within the film's world Digetic sound can be either on screen or off screen depending on whatever its source is within the frame or outside the frame. Another term for diegetic sound is actual sound Diegesis is a Greek word for "recounted story" The film's diegesis is the total world of the story action
The video is great, but you really are mistaken in this one thing. The sounds are most definitely diegetic acording to every learnbook definition. They are part of the world. There is no need to actually see the source or know what it is until we know it exists in the world. But there are many cases of combinations of diegetic and non-diegetic sounds in Once Upon - mainly the harmonica theme which sometime is diegetic and sometime not. And sometime Leone plays with it. Even the first time in this scene, when we hear it we can think about it as just non-diegetic film music. Than we see reactions and know it is diegetic. And then the orchestra comes in and the diegetic and non-diegetic music plays together - which is one of Leone's trademarks. But the shooting - diegetic. Or go argue with Bordwell. :-)
Well done Wolfcrow, that was bloody interesting. We are having a Sergio Leone festival here in London at BFI Southbank. I've signed up for Once Upon a Time, that's what brought me here... I'm glad I found you! :-)
This is an exceptional video; the discussion of light and camera angles is just fine. I believe that some credit might go to Leone as a student of John Ford in his now mature use of light to bring drama to a scene. Jill's entrance is evocative of John Wayne framed in the door in the last shots of "The Searchers" and the indoor lighting owes something to the indoor scenes in the stage stop of "Stagecoach".
I thoroughly enjoyed your perspective. Well done .... Henry Fonda had been a hero of mine ever since I first saw movies in the 1940s when he almost always played a heroic figure, alongside the likes of Jimmy Stewart, so it came as quite a shock when he played with such such villainy .
It would seem that you are a Master of the technical knowledge of shot composition and dramatic tension building with visual techniques. Brilliant analysis and explanation. Salute.
This movie is by far not only the best western ever but the best movie ever ,its the only movie you could look at over and over again and never get tired of it. all the hollywood movies these days are a joke.
Once Upon a Time in the West has THE BEST opening credit scene ever.
Leone's movies are such cinematic treasures, camera work, lighting, staging, sound, characters, acting, wardrobe... so much goes into a work of art such as this. Excellent presentation Wolfcrow...BRAVO!
Beautiful analysis. Saves the cost of film studies.I grew up in the movie business. My father was Rex Harrison. Your take on Leone's visual mastery and the principles of his style is superb.
Rex Harrison of My Fair Lady? He was a wonderful actor 😊
Yes, he was.@@blancheH7
My favorite Director. No one uses the close up better!
Sadly, Leone is no longer with us, but he did leave us with one final masterpiece _Once Upon a Time in America_ (1984) scored by his longtime collaborator and friend Ennio Morricone. Between them they've created some of the most memorable cinematic experiences beginning with _A Fistful of Dollars_ in 1964.
The more I watch Leone's work, there more nuances I notice. Pure genius. Leone and Kubrick were on a different level.
When Cheyenne is holding the lantern up close to Harmonica... I love that the shape of the lantern perfectly lines up with Cheyennes face down to his cheekbones. Like that specific lantern was chosen just so it could be lined up in that shot
Best line of the film is when Henry Fonda looks at a guy wearing suspenders and a belt. "He doesn't even trust his own pants"!! Brilliant
The flying lamp reveal is my favorite shot.
This is probably one of my favorite film critique videos. I just came back after a year to watch it again. Excellent analysis.
Sergio Leone was special in his own way, true artist, it was all in his intelligent mind, people can't copy his work, no matter how hard they try
Always remember, there are no accidental scenes in movies. Everything is there for a reason. Every prop, every item, every background. All carefully selected.
Sergio Leone was on another level than any other director at that time, in fact he was ahead of his time.
Mexlycan Lobo Hitchcock
Leone's one of those directors that you don't even try to imitate because it's futile.
that harmonic and so chilling that has gone down in history, every time he played it, the dead man who was cool escaped us.
I consider Leone one of the very best of directors, especially his visuals. I'm also very big on Kubrick for similar reasons. It feels like each shot is an individual piece of artwork. Thank you for explaining some of the terminology and what the director is delivering to the viewer in each shot. Leone in particular had the unique idea of shooting a film to an existing score, and Ennio Morricone is about the best in the film business (in my opinion as a composer). Once Upon a Time in the West remains in my top 10 favorites, and I must have watched it a hundred times over the last 35 years, and I discover something new each time. More of us "common folk" should learn about the arts, and film in particular, as it heightens one's appreciation when we learn how a great film is made.
i would bet everything i own..you dont even know the names of any great director...of hollywoods golden age...one of your favorite directors...sure when you dont have a clue who the great ones were!!...lol
I swear I have watched this movie six times in the last week, with the lock down and all. I look forward to the next time to find out new aspects of Lione's genius!
Something I wonder about;
Two scenes in the very beginning. The first was Jack Elam and the fly. The very first time I saw this, I laughed my butt off as he tried to shoo the fly away with as little effort as possible! Then, I would have bet the farm that he was gonna blow that freakin' fly to kingdom come! But, no! He captures it and, for all practical purposes, it looked like he was going to keep it! Only the obviously serious nature of why he was there made him release it.
The second was in the very next scene. After Henry Fonda's arrival, and with the massacre at the farm, and especially the slaughter of the youngest son, the contrast of these two killers was gut wrenching.. One couldn't hurt a fly, literally. The other repeatedly took pleasure in destroying boys before their prime!
Does anyone else have any observations about either or both of these scenes?
@@jadezee6316 John Ford, David Lean and Alfred Hitchcock just off the top of my head. Now you are flat broke.
Have you ever noticed that when Cheyenne approaches to the barman, the barman tries to take an axe just before Cheyenne stops his hand?
This being one of my favorite films of all time , I appreciate a different perspective and insightful analysis. The hidden depth of genius isn't always so obvious to the near sighted.
Also, Sergio took his time on each shot. Gave you a chance to soak in what the atmosphere of each shot felt like..... The tension he built up is what makes him a legend to me....
I have never learned more about film making in 22 minutes in my life. In fact I don't think I have learned as much about anything. Pure genius from wolfcrow and of course the master Sergio himself. Nobody does it better.
Wow! The fusion of art and science... amazing film.
I love everything about this scene, especially how both sides of the tavern are almost completely in shadow.
It lends a sense of mystery and potential danger, especially when Cheyenne makes his entrance.
Terrific. These breakdowns really help understanding the construction of a scene and a style. More of these please!
I just realized that it's not so easy to make a good movie :)
Gotta love this movie. Actors, music score and authenticity.
Simple but a true observation
It's always the misinterpretation of facts like this makes thing look harder than they are. Leone was not thinking so calculating while shooting. It was rather a genuine child soul play.
@Candies Freeman... So what's the basis of your assessment there? I much rather believe this is a highly calculated and meticulously planned and executed scene, just as the video author says. Can you make an equally eloquent case to support your basically complete denial? Or is it just a random clown comment to say something different?
@@c.knoxville5998 that's what I wanted to say. But , still I admire the effort of wolfcrow.
Fascinating analysis. I loved Sergio Leone. This is one of my top 10 films. And I loved Bronson.
to much analysis by the Poster. Jesus.
"Inside those three dusters, there were three men, inside those three men ,there are now three bullets". Excellent choice man, Leone was a true master. As for the drinks ,my opinion is that it is mainly practical. You would not expect a woman to drink, while Sam had to do something instead of just standing and the need for drink for Sayenne shows he has been through a lot. The heat shows on the sweat on their faces ,the dust and the warm colors in all the scenes. What is interesting is how often they have to cover their mouths. To me this is done for us to focus on their eyes (again very Sergio Leone) and add mystery at the same time. With Charles Bronson keeping his mouth from sight you can't tell if he is smiling or not. Same thing with the drinks none of which comes in a transparent glass. We could go for ages about the detail on this film ,nothing was put randomly and for sure this story was a perfectly written one.
mankriter Thanks, you make an interesting point!
Please do the bar scene in 'For a Few Dollars More" where Lee Van Cleef Lights a match on the hump back of Klaus Kinski in the tavern. Its one of my favorite scenes of all the spaghetti westerns.
Problem with Leone, is... He was a true artist... and like many arts, you need to be educated, initiated to completely appreciate the artwork. And the general public is completely unaware of all the magic behind.
OUATITW is my favorite movie since I saw it as a kid, I've seen it countless time, but the more I watch it, the more I understand WHY it's my favorite movie: the master of the art. The genius in story telling with a camera and music. I really have tears watching it, not only because of the story and how it's told, but really because I see the art master work. The scene where Jill is in the station and the camera goes over the roof is exceptional. I have shivers watching it. All the editing is top. ANY frame picked randomly is a great photography composition, like a painting. This is the best movie ever, a showcase of Leone genius, a "masterclass" in filmmaking. I've never saw another movie with such precise work.
OUATITW is NOT a western, it's an epic "opera" telling things far deeper that the "simple vengeance story"... It's about mankind, it's about time changes, it's about one new world getting over one old world. It's about following dreams, following revenge, following greed, following hope... And it's so beautiful, and of course the score is fantastic. And as most people forget, Leone DIRECTED Morricone for the score, Sergio is why this score is at this level.
Best film ever.
I really wish you'd do a breakdown of the final confrontation. I've always loved how Frank blinks frequently and even looks around as if expecting an ambush; Harmonica never looks away and seemingly never blinks.
I always thought he looking around to find the best spot where the sun wasn’t in his eyes.
WOW. I knew there was a system to his movie making. Maybe that's why his films Still stand today!!!
Keep pointing out things. Proof that today's generation appreciate the Man's work.
Fantastic Job. This happens to be my fav of all Leone's westerns. Great analysis.
Thank you!
Best movie ever made, the best music score that was ever written, outstanding cinematography, one of the most beautiful women that ever walked the face of the Earth, two of the best male actors, great acting, great story, masterfull directing. 'nuf said.
Excellent! An education in cinematography in just over 22 minutes. Well done!
Outstanding work.......done by
Sergio Leone...... tremendous knowledge about making of films... camera... lighting... music...and characters......... locations..... awesome.
Leone was the son of a director and an actress, and made his career "the old way", with years spent as assistant director and "director of the second unit" (the unit that filmed the less important scenes) in many major movies. First than being a gifted artist and an innovator he was an extremely skilled artisan. When he started to direct his own movies, he knew all the tricks.
Once upon a Time in The West, not only is the best western of all times, but it is also one of the best movies of all times, that will stand the test of time and become a great classic just like the Charlie Chaplin movies. We all agreed. Sergio Leone was a Genius with an incredible sense of cinematography, suspens and drama, who not only was ahead of his time, but is certainly one of the best movie maker that will ever exist. We all agree. But where I really want all of us to agree, is about the quality and in-depth research of this short video commenting this scene of the movie. This is absolutely a great analysis of the scene with all aspects of it explained and put into the context of the movie and the meaning of each little detail for the understanding of the whole story. Not only did you show Sergio Leone's genius but also every little detail that makes up a great scene. BRAVO! this is really a great job.
Wonderful movie. The music, scenery, actors, camera man and everyone else. No wonder there are so many holes in the tavern roof and side walls with so few people actually drinking there. Very good review
this looked very authentic. very detailed. from the clapboard construction to the horse stalls. nothing like the neat and clean bar rooms you see in other westerners.
This is an amazing movie, IMO, Sergio Leone's created it through his own artistic sense, his dramatic way of telling the story, and his technical ability to direct, edit it and put it together. It was done in a style that only Sergio Leone could do, and it's a masterpiece.
Not sure I entirely agree but hats off to your statement style and conviction.
Once upon the West is by far the best western ever filmed.
A masterpiece of a movie.
I think that the main lesson to learn here is that movie scenes need time to develop and sink in. There's no need to have an extreme rush with overcomplicating things and flood the viewers with special effects.
If just modern movie makes could understand that scenes like this might be what makes a movie memorable.
And whenever you see a movie - all those details with people in the background and perspectives is what can make you feel satisfied when the movie has ended and sometimes you want to watch it again just because there are so much secondary details that you may have missed.
And then you discover more each time you watch it and learn more about the characters, and pretty soon you can't wait to watch it again! It was the third or fourth time that I watched this treasure that I realized the awesome contrast of Jill and Cheyenne. She, the most incredibly beautiful, self aware, driven woman in a strange, yet familiar world; surrounded by men, but in charge of a predetermined dream she needed help to understand. All three "gun-men" helped sharpen her awareness of the future she had in store for her. The greatest impact on her decision to stay, I think, was made by Frank. She became more resolved after Harmonica bought the land, but the visit from the rat bastard, Frank, convinced her to see her husband's dream through to fruition. Jill's time spent with the crafty, scruffy bandit, Cheyenne, layed the groundwork for, I believe, the future success of Sweetwater..
There are so many details in this great movie that are hidden from discovery until one has seen it at least once before. For me, I look forward to the next viewing!
I was 12, at the Highway 39 drive-in in Huntington Beach, and with my parents when I saw this movie. I must have tortured them as I remember asking a million questions. It was just so different from any western I had ever seen. I remember the lack of dialog threw me. It was too complex; nothing in this film was identifiable to my inexperienced frame of reference. But that didn't stop it from becoming one of my favorite films. It made a huge impression on me
I live in HB. I remember that place. Now, it is a Walmart. Sad. Agreed about the movie, though. Fonda's character was especially brilliant, IMO.
The greatest western ever, the gone with the wind of westerns
I remember an English teacher discussing a poem I thought I liked, only to learn under her tutelage my liking only skimmed the surface of words to love.
You did the same for me with this movie.
Thank you.
greatest western ever Henry fonda at his best
NOV 2018 - Keep GOING - there are always NEW students out here wanting to unlock the secrets of cinematic mastery. Thank you very much for ALL this work (BETTER than anything our 'teacher' has produced!) 😎🏆
Thorough scene breakdown. I've watched this film dozens of times but now I truly see it thank you.
Probably the best movie I ever saw.
Outstanding!
Leone is one of my all time favorite directors. So thank you for this brilliant analysis. Now I love him even more.
You're welcome!
Brother you nailed it with degrees of depth that blew me away. Please continue your work. Your work should appear as commentary clips on TCM or other platforms. Keep it up!
Once Upon a Time in the West is one of my absolute favorite movies
Really excellent breakdown!
Thanks!
"Improve"? Can't be done. Your presentation was perfect.
Great analysis. This is one of my favorite films...the other is Peckinpah’s “Wild Bunch.”
Not only did your refined taste do justice for this great film that I dearly cherish, but your product itself came out as eloquent as the very piece that is its subject!! My most sincere applauds!!!!
One of my favorite movies by one of my favorite directors, with a soundtrack by one of my favorite composers.
The only film I have ever seen that is a better film the second time around....Charles Bronson should have gotten an Academy Award if only for the fight with Fonda at the end,what he gives the viewer through his face and eyes is astounding,hate,love for his brother,his life long quest for revenge and his solace at getting the revenge as he relishes seeing Frank die after he killed him....absolutely astounding without saying a word.
One of my favorite movies
One of my favorite scenes in my favorite western. Very good interpretation.
Terrific video. I may think that the Good the Bad and The Ugly is the Best Western ever made.
Saw this classic film in the drive-in theater when I was fifteen years old, it made an impression! This discussion of set and setting, the disciplined use of angle of view, of chiaroscuro, of depth created by motions and the significance of meticulous details as well as depth of field rings true as brass. Brilliant analysis of technical deatails that are truly the brushwork in this painting. Was always struck by the music, owned the soundtrack... but I learned a good bit from your points on the sounds, music and diagetics as well. Thank you ever so much.
You're welcome!
This reminds me of the book reports in high school and college English class, using footnotes from other sources to back your theories and ideas about what the characters symbolized and their significance. Very well explained. Something that usually goes unnoticed. Gives a good sense of what the directors are thinking as to how to keep the audience fixed on the scenes.
Great breakdown, wolfcrow. Such a great film and soundtrack. I get tingles when I hear that music at the beginning.
this is my favorite western, you did a great job dissecting the famous scene
Outstanding commentary on Sergio Leone direction. Want more of when Cheyenne dies too. Music is amazing.
Loved this. Always been a Sergio Leone fan. great analysis
Thank you so much for this. Once upon a time in the west, is the greatest western film of all time. Sergio Leone is truly a
Master!
This is the first video I have ever seen of yours. I plan on going into your video log and watching more. I remember first seeing this scene and, I made a mental note that it was one of the most complex scenes I had seen in a western. The lighting and set were...overwhelming with atmosphere. Your analysis really helped me understand even more of that depth.
There are clearly two masters at work here- Leone, and Wolfcrow
Thank you!
Fantastic analysis of a great scene.This is why I rewatch movies.
Thanks for making this. I've always felt that this scene was the original Creature Cantina from Star Wars (1977, 9 years later). Also, I thought it was worth nothing the sympathy Cheyenne shows for Harmonica when he sees the bullet wound.
wow - spot on analysis. Could not stop watching
Rob Brown Thank you!
I saw this movie when I was a youngster. Yes. I'm old. Of all the westerns I have seen. This one was the best. Good job on your presentation.
I second "friend to be." Your analysis is an eye-opener. Please make more clips like this one!
this is brilliant. Really well presented and explained. Please keep it going
extremely concise and well narrated analysis of this picture. i have regarded this and the GoodBadUgly as the finest westerns ever directed. each a Leone masterpiece. its the telling of the story that is captivating. each time i watch, something more is learned. I contrast these movies with others of the time. if i were to watch them today, the others are campy and somewhat lame, but Leone's films only grow in their power to captivate.
BTW, Hank was an awesome villain, a side of him we never really got to see in his career. RIP HF, CB, JR and SL.
This is one my short list of all-time favorite movie scenes.
Along with each characters musical motif Leone gives Harmonica a special visual motif in the way he enters and exits edge of frame during most of the film.
Excellent ,it shows the pure genius of Leone. I really enjoyed your analysis of the best western ever.
This is the best western ever made watch it every couple of years. Glad the directors cut was released to show the greatness of Leone’s work, the Hollywood producers really messed this movie up initially by reducing the run time so that the story was compromised and made little sense until the directors cut came out.
very nice analysis, thanks for your work!
You're welcome!
Greatest Western ever period. Fonda Rules!!
I am a huge Sergio Leone fan and of the Western genre. I love this scene too but my favorite is the opening....arrival of Harmonica. His wide landscapes and extreme close ups make it a masterpiece in my view. I really enjoyed your analysis. This scene also leaves the audience with many questions about who will do what later in the film..building mystery and interest. The firearms themselves also add to each characters personality....and Harmonica never uses a holster or flaunts his Colt SAA until it's important to do so....and yet you already know he's a proficient gunfighter. Leone also shows gun angles in his shots too. Truly nothing like it these days.
Yes! But you forgot to mention my favorite sound design element of that opening scene which sets the unnerving tone: the windmill!
Amazing!! Leone was incredible...
this channel has become a great source of learning to me... keep on going
Thanks!
Best western ever made....along with GB&U
YOUR ANALYSIS WAS EXTREMELY INFORMATIVE .I am a huge leoni fan and a huge fan of this movie.The best movies are a "place that you go" the tavern scene from once upon a time is especially a place that iv'e gone many a time. Thanks for explaining I think you are spot-on
Excellent presentation, extremely educational - I always wondered why this movie, this scene, in particular, captured me so completely. It was electric. Now I know why - thank you.
This is a great breakdown. I've seen this scene several times in film school and again in workshops, but it was always just hey, check this great scene... but this really explains what's going on
A very well thought-out essay video on a beautiful film. Just one nitpick-y thing: at 11:47 I think those sounds are technically diegetic because while they're offscreen, they do have a source in the world of the film. That would just be offscreen sound.
I love the analysis of the close-ups and long shots and their effects on the story!
Thank you! I wrestled with the same question about diegetic sound, but then I asked myself: Any sound introduced into the film can be diagetic, once it's been introduced! Now it's part of the film. So in this case no one has seen the horses or bullets - even during the exterior shots prior to the scene. So I decided to follow the definition strictly.
I'm not saying I'm right, just explaining my decision.
I think the disco narwhal is right here.
Since all the characters react to the sound, the sound has a source in the world of the film, meaning it is diegetic :).
Otherwise out standing video ! Please keep making more, it's quite rare to see this level of film technical analysis on youtube.
Thank you for your work !
Ha! I commented before reading the comments, I'll repost here (from film sound dot org):
Diegetic sound: Sound whose source is visible on the screen or whose source is implied to be present by the action of the film:
voices of characters
sounds made by objects in the story
music represented as coming from instruments in the story space ( = source music)
Diegetic sound is any sound presented as originated from source within the film's world
Digetic sound can be either on screen or off screen depending on whatever its source is within the frame or outside the frame.
Another term for diegetic sound is actual sound
Diegesis is a Greek word for "recounted story"
The film's diegesis is the total world of the story action
Yоu сan wаtсh Onсеее Uроn а ТТТimе in thе Wеst hеrе twitter.com/ca13ba2e1bdb9f535/status/795841575083311104 Cаmеrа АААnglеs аnd Моvеmеnt Sеrgiо Lеоnе Тааааvеrn sсеnе Оnсе Uррроn а Тimеe in thе Wеst
The video is great, but you really are mistaken in this one thing. The sounds are most definitely diegetic acording to every learnbook definition. They are part of the world. There is no need to actually see the source or know what it is until we know it exists in the world. But there are many cases of combinations of diegetic and non-diegetic sounds in Once Upon - mainly the harmonica theme which sometime is diegetic and sometime not. And sometime Leone plays with it. Even the first time in this scene, when we hear it we can think about it as just non-diegetic film music. Than we see reactions and know it is diegetic. And then the orchestra comes in and the diegetic and non-diegetic music plays together - which is one of Leone's trademarks. But the shooting - diegetic. Or go argue with Bordwell. :-)
Great analysis of a master craftsman's work, have always loved the movie and many of his past films.
One of my all time favourite movies.....
Brilliant on many levels. Thank you.
Well done Wolfcrow, that was bloody interesting. We are having a Sergio Leone festival here in London at BFI Southbank. I've signed up for Once Upon a Time, that's what brought me here... I'm glad I found you! :-)
for me one who knew nothing about the setup and filming of movies, this was very interesting and informative.
This is an excellent video! I learned quite a bit from your breakdown of Sergio Leone's masterpiece, "Once Upon a Time In the West". Thank you!
This is an exceptional video; the discussion of light and camera angles is just fine. I believe that some credit might go to Leone as a student of John Ford in his now mature use of light to bring drama to a scene. Jill's entrance is evocative of John Wayne framed in the door in the last shots of "The Searchers" and the indoor lighting owes something to the indoor scenes in the stage stop of "Stagecoach".
This is Top Shelf you do an amazing job I don't think I've ever heard anybody do such a great analysis that was a lot of fun
What an excellent analysis! Thank you!
This was a very informative and well thought-out analysis of a great scene in a great movie.
Thank you!
I thoroughly enjoyed your perspective. Well done .... Henry Fonda had been a hero of mine ever since I first saw movies in the 1940s when he almost always played a heroic figure, alongside the likes of Jimmy Stewart, so it came as quite a shock when he played with such such villainy .
Thank you!
It would seem that you are a Master of the technical knowledge of shot composition and dramatic tension building with visual techniques. Brilliant analysis and explanation. Salute.