Some Time INSIDE Sonora Prison Would Have Been Nice

I realize of the so-called "Five Hour Version" which is really the original cut that's intended to be cut into an actual film... But within the "fat trimmed" by the studio I wonder if Brando had intended there to be some time shown inside the prison. I feel very robbed despite being a mega-fan of this movie going all the way back to the bargain bin days and now watching on a loop on my Criterion. Showing him arrested and then showing he and his sidekick (loved that guy) escape from prison seemed rushed and rather silly since, looking so easy and without anyone on their trail, it's a wonder he didn't escape during the first week locked up. True, we don't know how they escaped but with Brando's priceless expressions... those that made him an icon... sitting in a rat infested cell and then maybe showing the escape would have given us a glimpse into the purgatory he existed in, and that would make the rest of the movie, wherein he's seeking revenge, a bit more... I don't know... I love this movie, and I think this whole concept of a 5 Hour Western is as misunderstood as Brando being stupid enough to wait for the perfect waves, when in fact he had to find the waves that fit the day before for continuity's sake... I think some time needed trimming at the third act to get that robbery, which happens much too fast for all the planning about it beforehand, quicker, less time having the same conversation with the girl and show that Malden actually has feelings for this supposed daughter of his: enough to turn Rio into Jesus on the Cross in the pivotal whipping post scene...

Anyhow... Just my thoughts; a few of them anyhow...

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