From small beginnings careers are born

Lee Marvin gave us a small serving in The Killers of what was to come later in Point Blank where instead of a supporting role he had the lead in what was really his signature piece. With the small role in Killers the Marvin persona gave a hint of the talents of this one off actor. High octane non stop action was the name of the game in Lees book & these types of roles gave him the canvass on which to display his ubundant talent. The dirty Dozen is generally regarded as his best work & I would not disagree with that statement although when one looks back at the wide scope of his body of work there was much to be admired when Lee took on roles that displayed softer & even comic tones to his persona. But it will always be the tough guy roles he played so well for which he will be remembered not perhaps surprisingly Paint your Wagon although in the final analysis it is for the individual to determine the what the real Lee Marvin was. Just enjoy his talents for what they were & leave the analysing to posterity.