Many things about High Noon (1952) set it apart from the standard Western. One of the most prominent aspects, however, is that it takes place "in real time" with the entirety of the events in the film taking place over the span of an hour and a half. The film is a true classic, directed by Fred Zinnemann, music by Dimitri Tiomkin, with the unforgettable theme song, "Do Not Forsake Me, Oh My Darling" sung by Tex Ritter.
Marshall Will Cain (Gary Cooper) has just married a lovely Quaker girl (Grace Kelly), and is planning to turn in his badge and leave town to enjoy a peaceful existence...
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| High Noon. 1952: Gary Cooper |
Their plans are destroyed when word arrives that a crazy killer named Frank Miller is coming. Cain had put Miller away, but now he has been released from prison, and is on his way back to town to enact his revenge. Miller's brother and two henchmen, all armed to the teeth, are already at the train depot, waiting for Miller to arrive on the Noon train...
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| High Noon. 1952 |
Although Cain should flee, he can't, in good conscience, allow himself to do so. He will face Miller and his gang. Cain goes around the town trying to recruit deputies to help him...
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| High Noon. 1952: Gary Cooper |
Everyone is too afraid and refuses to offer him any aid...
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| High Noon. 1952: Gary Cooper |
And there is jealousy and fear existing, as Miller's new bride and his former flame (Katy Jurado) dread the events that will transpire when the clock strikes Noon...
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| High Noon. 1952: Katy Jurado and Grace Kelly |
With all his friends and loved ones refusing to help him, Cain grows despondent but remains strong in the face of the impossible feat ahead of him: It is him against four armed men. He is alone.
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| High Noon. 1952: Gary Cooper |
The hands of the clock are reaching skyward, time is running out...
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| High Noon. 1952: Gary Cooper |
