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The Message is REDEMPTION (Spoiler alert)


All of the characters in this flick save for a couple wound up redeeming themselves:

* Dallas, the "whore," showed what she was really made of when she stayed up all night long taking care of Mrs. Mallory and her newborn baby.

* Ringo, the "outlaw," was exceptional in helping to save everyone when the chips were down. He also showed kindness toward Dallas, whom everyone else save the doc shunned.

* Hatfield, the southern "gambler," served as Mrs. Mallory's protector and showed himself to be quite the gentleman. He also went up to the plate during the Indian attack.

* Dr. Boone, the "drunk who couldn't treat a horse," refuted his critics by taking good care of Mrs. Mallory and her babe, treating Mr. Peacock after he was hit, and by defending the stagecoach in general during the attack.

* Mrs. Mallory was snooty toward Dallas almost the entire movie but in the end tried to express her appreciation for all that Dallas had done for her.

Mr. Peacock, Buck, and the marshal really didn't need to redeem themselves, but in the end the marshal did reward Ringo for all that he had done.

The POS during the entire movie was the bankster, who stole the money from his customer, whined and complained the entire time, and didn't lift a finger to help anyone, evening when they were being attacked by savage Apaches.

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[deleted]

Great analysis! I completely agree about the redemptive message. I would even say that Ringo's behavior toward Dallas shows a salvific message in the way he loves her regardless of her past. And through his love she is able to start a new life with him.

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Don't forget that the doc took away Plummer's shotgun before he went to the duel as well.

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