One-Eyed Jacks (Western, 1961)

One-Eyed Jacks is a gritty Western centered on revenge and betrayal. Rio (Marlon Brando), a bank robber, is double-crossed by his partner, Dad Longworth (Karl Malden), during a heist in Mexico. After escaping prison years later, Rio tracks down Dad, now a respectable sheriff in Monterey, California, living with his wife, Maria (Katy Jurado), and stepdaughter, Louisa (Pina Pellicer). Rio, consumed by vengeance, plots to kill Dad but complicates matters by falling for Louisa. As tensions rise, Rio’s quest for revenge clashes with his growing emotional ties, leading to a dramatic showdown. The film explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the blurred lines between hero and villain.
Cast:
Marlon Brando as Rio (also the director)

Karl Malden as Dad Longworth

Pina Pellicer as Louisa

Katy Jurado as Maria Longworth

Ben Johnson as Bob Amory

Slim Pickens as Deputy Lon Dedrick

Larry Duran as Chico Modesto

Fun Facts:
Brando’s Directorial Debut: One-Eyed Jacks is the only film Marlon Brando directed. He took over from Stanley Kubrick, who left due to creative differences.

Troubled Production: The film went over budget and schedule, with Brando shooting extensive footage (rumored to be over a million feet of film). Paramount later cut the runtime from over four hours to 141 minutes.

Restored Version: In 2016, a restored version closer to Brando’s vision was released by The Criterion Collection, praised for its cinematography by Charles Lang.

Title Origin: "One-Eyed Jacks" refers to the two face cards in a deck (the jack of spades and jack of hearts) that show only one eye, symbolizing deceit and duplicity.

Authentic Locations: Filmed in Death Valley and Monterey, the movie’s stunning visuals, including coastal scenes, add to its epic feel.

Brando’s Method Acting: Brando’s intense performance and improvisational style clashed with Malden’s more disciplined approach, creating real tension that enhanced their on-screen rivalry.

Critical Reception: Initially divisive, the film has since gained a cult following for its psychological depth and Brando’s raw performance.