MovieChat Forums > The Professionals (1966) Discussion > Why Dolworth and not Jake?

Why Dolworth and not Jake?

posted 8 years ago by Picasner
6 replies | jump to latest

As they re traveling south on their way to Raza, Rico sends Dolworth to scout ahead. Why not use Jake who is supposedly the best tracker ever?

[–] chrisschock 8 years ago

Well its common to have a different guy take the point each time. Just so it's fair and no one man is stuck having to go it alone all the time. Jake did take the point earlier if you remember, so it was probably Dolworth's turn.

[–] Picasner 8 years ago

I understand that, but tracking was the talent that Jake was chosen for. It was his job. Dolworth did all the dynamite work, Ehrengard always took care of the horses and Fardan made all the decisions. I think it was just a ploy to get Dolworth out there to leave those little clues. But it still should have been Jake doing the scout work.
Thanks for responding. I always appreciate another viewpoint.

[–] chrisschock 8 years ago

Well Jake was the best tracker, but I'm sure Dolworth and the others could track as well. In all likelihood it was done for the sake of the movie in giving Lancaster his own scene. Shame they didn't use Woody Strode as much as the others.

[–] Picasner 8 years ago

Probably the best answer for the question I raised. I agree with you about Strode. Very unappreciated.

[–] foster11 7 years ago

Keep in mind, they were moving thru an area that Rico and Dolworth had already fought over during the revolution, They knew about where they were going anyway, and the terrain, then there is the cross meaning safety, upside down meaning not safe, Jake May not have known to use those signs

You don't have to stand tall, but you do have to stand up!

[–] Picasner 7 years ago

Agreed, but Jake was still the best tracker. Earlier, Faraday sent Jake off to scout and then tried to tell him where they would be and Jake replied, "I'll find you." It had to be a movie ploy to get Dolworth (Lancaster) screen time. Plus, Jake probably wouldn't have gotten caught.
Anyway, I still love this movie.