The Wild Bunch
Director: Sam Peckinpah
Actors: William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Robert Ryan
PlotIn the early 1900s, a group of aging outlaws led by Pike Bishop plan one final heist to secure their retirement as the Old West fades into history. The gang—including loyal Dutch Engstrom and volatile brothers Lyle and Tector Gorch—aims to rob a railroad office in Texas. Unbeknownst to them, their former comrade-turned-bounty hunter, Deke Thornton, is seeking redemption by leading a posse to capture them. The heist goes awry, resulting in a chaotic shootout and significant losses on both sides. Escaping to Mexico, the surviving members of the gang regroup, dogged by Thornton and his posse.
The outlaws encounter a Mexican rebel leader, Mapache, who hires them to hijack a U.S. Army weapons shipment in exchange for gold. Tensions rise as loyalties are tested within the gang and with their new employer. As they navigate trust issues, personal demons, and relentless pursuit, the weary outlaws find themselves in increasingly dire situations. With every step, their past deeds weigh heavily on their conscience, leading them to realize that their way of life is rapidly disappearing.
Writers: Walon Green, Sam Peckinpah, Roy N. Sickner
Release Date: 19 Jun 1969
Runtime: 135 min
Rating: R
Country: United States
Language: English, Spanish, German
Home Video Reviews
An essential classic with a superb video transfer and comprehensive extras; only the average audio mix falls short. Highly recommended for collectors.
Read our review of The Wild Bunch Blu-ray to find out more