Review Summary of Last Train to Fortune
Last Train to Fortune is a retro western that follows the journey of Cecil Peachtree, an English schoolteacher played by Malcolm McDowell, who embarks on a train-less adventure to the town of Fortune. The script, written by Michele Rifkin in 1986, has endured a long development history marked by notable talents, including director Lindsay Anderson and actor Bill Paxton, before finally coming to fruition with Paxton’s son, James, stepping into a key role.
The film presents an engaging dynamic between the literate Cecil and the brash, illiterate Dooley. While McDowell delivers a well-calibrated performance, lending depth to his character, Paxton’s portrayal lacks the necessary depth, making it difficult to fully appreciate the evolving relationship between the two men. Their journey is filled with humorous situations, yet the film struggles to find a cohesive tone and style, trapped between digital aesthetics and a longing for the textured look of classic westerns.
However, the script feels somewhat dated, with humor that may resonate more with a younger audience, leading to the film feeling less impactful than intended. The film’s conclusion, though not unearned, carries a light tone reminiscent of cartoons rather than a more profound narrative. Ultimately, while filled with emotional weight, Last Train to Fortune emerges as a charming but inconsequential watch—pleasing enough to not be dismissed entirely, even if it falls short of its ambitious promise.
