A Western, in the 21st Century? I reckon I'm there!

Starring Kevin Costner, Robert Duvall, and Annette Bening? Three extra solid reasons to see this commendable film.

Costner is the gritty cowboy with a history of issues, working for Duvall for a decade but haunted by personal demons, not worried about drawing his guns against folks that need killin', but loyal and honest to those who reciprocate. He ain't looking for trouble, but finishes it when it comes.

Duvall is the wise old cowboy, the last of a dying breed. As Costner borrows a clich� from a hundred years later, they "broke the mold" after Duvall was born.

Bening is the prairie flower that brightens any hardened cowboys' spirits. In this case, Costner is smitten, and she equally.

Duvall and Costner are free range cattle farmers in 1882 Montana who drive the herd too close to Michael Gambon's town. The ranch owner doesn't take kindly to folks over a day's ride away on land Gambon's probably never seen personally. But Gambon owns the town, including the town sheriff (James Russo), so it's time to intimidate the free rangers. Duvall gets a hankering to hold his ground, and sets in motion the ultimate showdown.

But two hours and fifteen minutes long? Hasn't Costner ever let an editor whiff his prints? Trim a half-hour and it's still good. Ever since the Academy stroked his ego with Dances With Wolves, he thinks every movie he makes will compete for Oscar. None do. And I'm a Costner fan!

I aim to praise, Costner, though, because his direction wisely focuses much attention on the scenic vistas of the West, with rocky mountains and plush green plains, looking out the wild blue yonder with storms on the horizon and the muddy streets of a new town.

Open Range is an attractive picture, and homespun in dialogue as well to bring the viewer where the deer and antelope play. Seldom is heard a discouraging word, but when it happens you best clear out.

There are a few silly bits in the movie that stuck in my craw (if I knew what a 'craw' was), but it overwhelmingly makes up for them when it counts. Costner doesn't skimp on personal dealings, allowing us time to meet and like the main characters, rooting for them and hissing the bad guys.

Even as I complain about length, I appreciate that Costner takes the time to set up every scene, so I guess I ain't hurt none, neither, and I best get my mind right with takin' it all in.