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!
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.
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.
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.
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
The reviewer of OUATIAmerica described Leone's work as silent films with signature narrative scores. Your break down of every visual element fits like a glove. Thanks!
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
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.
I’m a professional amateur cinema buff and this is my all time favorite movie. For me the mastery of integration of music with visual storytelling puts this above everything else I’ve seen. Maybe there’s a film I’ve not seen that matches this. I’d love suggestions. I found your analysis and breakdown of techniques absolutely wonderful. I’d love your take on the use of Henry Fonda as a black hat character because given his body of work I think that type of role was a significant departure from the norm. I found him brilliantly despicable and the close ups of his ice cold eyes riveting. Thanks for the amazing content… I subbed and will definitely dig into more. ❤
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.
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 love this movie for the very reasons you are talking about, but I didn't know it at the time. I've watched it at least ten times or more and see something new each time. The way you cretique it is outstanding and I'll be seeing things a lot different the next time I watch it. Thanks!
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.
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.
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?
I’m glad I found a comment comparing the cinematography and flow of this movie to that of a Kubrick epic like 2001 a space odyssey. I will go as far as saying this movie is Leones 2001 a space odyssey.
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 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.
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.
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
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!!!!
Always remember, there are no accidental scenes in movies. Everything is there for a reason. Every prop, every item, every background. All carefully selected.
Love this analysis of a master film maker. It is also an education in film making when it is done right and without any CGI like in modern film making.
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.
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....
Excellent explanation. It takes tremendous skill and effort to create an artistic masterpiece. You can't create unique artistry using an assembly line approach. These films are custom craftsmanship.
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.
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.
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!) 😎🏆
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?
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.
Brilliant analysis. You can't help by admire the depth of the Leone's craft. You ask advice ... just keep doing what you are doing ! I learned an awful lot watching this.
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.
I also love this line! But my best would be «Now that you called me by name», answering his henchman that asked him «What about the boy, Frank?» And thats also a metaphor for the whole movie, as someone he has hurt in the past decided to come back for revenge as a grown-up.
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!
You ar allright: master scene by master director. Thanks for the descriction and the thorough analysis. With this videos you can pick lot of usefull information and tricks, so thanks again for doing it. My fav shot is the close up of Shine (Harmonica's enemy) coming into the thavern. The zoom movement, the actor's turn and the light on his eyes are simply the perfection.
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 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.
"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.
Btw. Pls. Continue with the whole movie like you did. I have seen this movie many many times but your capacity for detail is exquisite and sure enriched my understandings. It’s the most masculine movie and Sergios understandings on polarities and deep masculine presence N feminine radiance which is almost unheard of even now is deeply worshipful
Thank you, once again, Sareesh. I can't imagine how much time it took to put together such a thorough (and enlightening) analysis. Extraordinary work, as always.
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!
Thank you - this was very enlightening - I saw this movie in the theater when it first came out and realized that I was watching more than just a cowboy movie. Your analysis of the tavern scene is impeccable. now im going to see your PDF. thanks / great.
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.
I really appreciate all of your videos and learn so much from you. I was a little confused for a second when you rewinded the video and began a second pass of commentary. All in all very educational, please continue what you are doing.
I found this very very interesting. There is so much that goes into a great film by a great director. Although the director and film composer, in this case Ennio Morricone, will sit down and discuss where music must be placed, the music itself is pure Morricone. Keep up the great work!
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 .
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.
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.
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.
Just ran across this. Loved it. I consider Once Upon A Time In The West to be a must-watch for any photographer/cinematographer. Especially like the scene in the beginning with the fly.
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
My favorite Director. No one uses the close up better!
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!
Once Upon a Time in the West has THE BEST opening credit scene ever.
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.
Totally agree. If you listen to Pirates of the Caribbean the score is taken (with attribution mind you) from this film. I love the music.
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
Outstanding commentary on Sergio Leone direction. Want more of when Cheyenne dies too. Music is amazing.
The more I watch Leone's work, there more nuances I notice. Pure genius. Leone and Kubrick were on a different level.
This is an excellent deep dive into Leone's bag of tricks, with aspects I have rarely seen mentioned in other analyses. I learned so much!
This is probably one of my favorite film critique videos. I just came back after a year to watch it again. Excellent analysis.
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.
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
The reviewer of OUATIAmerica described Leone's work as silent films with signature narrative scores.
Your break down of every visual element fits like a glove. Thanks!
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
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.
I’m a professional amateur cinema buff and this is my all time favorite movie. For me the mastery of integration of music with visual storytelling puts this above everything else I’ve seen. Maybe there’s a film I’ve not seen that matches this. I’d love suggestions. I found your analysis and breakdown of techniques absolutely wonderful. I’d love your take on the use of Henry Fonda as a black hat character because given his body of work I think that type of role was a significant departure from the norm. I found him brilliantly despicable and the close ups of his ice cold eyes riveting. Thanks for the amazing content… I subbed and will definitely dig into more. ❤
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.
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 love this movie for the very reasons you are talking about, but I didn't know it at the time. I've watched it at least ten times or more and see something new each time. The way you cretique it is outstanding and I'll be seeing things a lot different the next time I watch it. Thanks!
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.
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.
Terrific. These breakdowns really help understanding the construction of a scene and a style. More of these please!
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?
I’m glad I found a comment comparing the cinematography and flow of this movie to that of a Kubrick epic like 2001 a space odyssey. I will go as far as saying this movie is Leones 2001 a space odyssey.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Probably the best movie I ever saw.
Outstanding!
Excellent! An education in cinematography in just over 22 minutes. Well done!
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
Thorough scene breakdown. I've watched this film dozens of times but now I truly see it thank you.
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
The flying lamp reveal is my favorite shot.
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!!!!
Always remember, there are no accidental scenes in movies. Everything is there for a reason. Every prop, every item, every background. All carefully selected.
Loved this. Always been a Sergio Leone fan. great analysis
Love this analysis of a master film maker. It is also an education in film making when it is done right and without any CGI like in modern film making.
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.
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....
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!
Excellent explanation.
It takes tremendous skill and effort to create an artistic masterpiece.
You can't create unique artistry using an assembly line approach.
These films are custom craftsmanship.
Fantastic Job. This happens to be my fav of all Leone's westerns. Great analysis.
Thank you!
There are clearly two masters at work here- Leone, and Wolfcrow
Thank you!
that harmonic and so chilling that has gone down in history, every time he played it, the dead man who was cool escaped us.
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.
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!
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!
Bravo. Your analysis encompassing the cinematography and score is amazing. Plenty of stuff i missed my first 20 times though.
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!) 😎🏆
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.
Excellent ,it shows the pure genius of Leone. I really enjoyed your analysis of the best western ever.
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.
Brilliant analysis.
You can't help by admire the depth of the Leone's craft.
You ask advice ... just keep doing what you are doing !
I learned an awful lot watching this.
The greatest western ever, the gone with the wind of westerns
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.
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
I also love this line! But my best would be «Now that you called me by name», answering his henchman that asked him «What about the boy, Frank?» And thats also a metaphor for the whole movie, as someone he has hurt in the past decided to come back for revenge as a grown-up.
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.
Wow! The fusion of art and science... amazing film.
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!
One of my favorite movies
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!
You ar allright: master scene by master director. Thanks for the descriction and the thorough analysis. With this videos you can pick lot of usefull information and tricks, so thanks again for doing it.
My fav shot is the close up of Shine (Harmonica's enemy) coming into the thavern. The zoom movement, the actor's turn and the light on his eyes are simply the perfection.
Thank you!
this is my favorite western, you did a great job dissecting the famous scene
for me one who knew nothing about the setup and filming of movies, this was very interesting and informative.
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.
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.
Terrific video. I may think that the Good the Bad and The Ugly is the Best Western ever made.
"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!
Really excellent analysis of a very unique talent! Bravo!
Btw. Pls. Continue with the whole movie like you did. I have seen this movie many many times but your capacity for detail is exquisite and sure enriched my understandings. It’s the most masculine movie and Sergios understandings on polarities and deep masculine presence N feminine radiance which is almost unheard of even now is deeply worshipful
One of my favorite scenes in my favorite western. Very good interpretation.
Thank you, once again, Sareesh. I can't imagine how much time it took to put together such a thorough (and enlightening) analysis. Extraordinary work, as always.
You're welcome!
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!
Thank you - this was very enlightening - I saw this movie in the theater when it first came out and realized that I was watching more than just a cowboy movie. Your analysis of the tavern scene is impeccable. now im going to see your PDF. thanks / great.
You're welcome!
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.
I really appreciate all of your videos and learn so much from you. I was a little confused for a second when you rewinded the video and began a second pass of commentary. All in all very educational, please continue what you are doing.
You're welcome!
Great stuff. A nice dissection of the elements. I have a new appreciation for the work of Sergio Leone. Thanks.
Michael Kleven You're welcome!
Really great job. It was like being back in film school.
"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.”
wow - spot on analysis. Could not stop watching
Rob Brown Thank you!
I found this very very interesting. There is so much that goes into a great film by a great director. Although the director and film composer, in this case Ennio Morricone, will sit down and discuss where music must be placed, the music itself is pure Morricone. Keep up the great work!
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!
Fantastic analysis of a great scene.This is why I rewatch movies.
Once upon the West is by far the best western ever filmed.
Best Western Ever!!
Great vid, thanks! My all time favorite movie. I think I've seen it a 100 times and I still haven't had enough.
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.
Amazing!! Leone was incredible...
this channel has become a great source of learning to me... keep on going
Thanks!
this is brilliant. Really well presented and explained. Please keep it going
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.
Wow!
wolfcrow, that was an awesome post. You truly are an aficianado of cinema. Thanks
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.
Such an in-depth analysis. This scene will never be the same for me now. Great job!
Thanks!
You should call this Cinema University. Mesmerizing detail of elucidation. Thanks
Just ran across this. Loved it. I consider Once Upon A Time In The West to be a must-watch for any photographer/cinematographer. Especially like the scene in the beginning with the fly.
This is the best analysis I have seen on TH-cam!!!
Patrick Birnbacher Thank you!
Fantastic movie...what would you expect from the great Sergio.
Fantastic breakdown. So clearly thought out and explained. Thanks a million.
You're welcome!
A masterpiece of a movie.