Heaven's Gate(1980)- User Reviews

Heaven's Gate is a beautiful film that redefines the ‘Western’ genre. Word to the wise: this IS a LONG film and will not entertain a viewer that enjoys fast action or dialogue that depends upon one-liners and quips to enliven the characters or plot. This story unfolds slowly and purposefully towards its violent end. It uses stretches of understated acting and sparse dialogue to give the viewer insights into characters and includes excellent performances by Isabelle Huppert, Kris Kristofferson, Jeff Bridges, Christopher Walken and John Hurt (in a character that rivals any Shakespearian jester), as well as Sam Waterston who revels in what may be his only villain to date! The roller skating sequence alone is worth a viewing and Michael Cimino pulls the audience into the waltz sequences in a way that only he can. It has some of the most gorgeous cinematography you will ever see on film, whether detailing the breathtaking Wyoming landscapes or the glow of a fireplace inside a brothel. Although this film bombed here in the US and has the reputation of bankrupting United Artists, it did do well in European distribution, was critically acclaimed there and certainly has a cult following around the world. This film adheres to its own rules of story telling, cannot be compared to any other created that decade and certainly deserves a place among modern American classics. If you liked “The thin red line”, you might want to check this one out…