Der Wildeste unter Tausend

Hud is definitely not a western, as it only approximates this genre in terms of location and the polarized conflict between two strong personalities. In reality, it is a psychological drama of the conflict between father and son, and at the same time the conflict between two different value systems. The old farmer is a product of conservative America, which values land, family, authority, and religious values, while Hud is a child of his time, the affluent America of the 1950s, which values consumerism and entertainment. The most valuable aspect of the film is Paul Newman's performance, who is primarily known to film fans for his positive roles, but he convincingly and skillfully played the role of the selfish rogue. In the context of its time and Hollywood production, it is certainly a standout film, but looking back, it does seem somewhat clichéd. It is exactly the kind of film where the main characters, especially the old farmer, are able to find the right wise words at the right moment, which realistically occurs to a person only after a long period of time has passed. In intense situations, I would expect such a man to deliver a few juicy curses or an honest slap. Overall impression: 75%. (09.03.2011)

An excellent modern western that shows how things can turn out when someone is unyielding when they insist on standing their ground at all costs and won't let anyone get close. The acting is truly exceptional, as evidenced by the nominations of almost all the actors who appear in significant roles. Westerns take different paths, and this is one of them. (29.04.2015)