Purgatory (1999 film)
Purgatory, also known as Purgatory West of Hell, is a 1999 American Western television film directed by Uli Edel and starring Sam Shepard, Eric Roberts, Randy Quaid, Donnie Wahlberg, and Brad Rowe.
Synopsis
The film centers on a group of outlaws, led by the ruthless Blackjack Britton (Eric Roberts), who stumble upon a seemingly idyllic and peaceful town called Refuge. Exhausted and low on supplies, they are welcomed by the town's seemingly pious and gentle residents, led by Sheriff Forrest (Sam Shepard). However, the outlaws soon discover that Refuge harbors a dark secret: its inhabitants are the resurrected souls of famous Old West figures, condemned to repeatedly relive their lives and atone for their sins in a kind of earthly purgatory. The outlaws find themselves trapped and forced to confront their own pasts and moral choices as they become entangled in the town's bizarre reality.
Cast
- Sam Shepard as Sheriff Forrest/Wild Bill Hickok
- Eric Roberts as Blackjack Britton
- Randy Quaid as Doc Holiday
- Donnie Wahlberg as Deputy Glen/Billy the Kid
- Brad Rowe as Ben/Tom McLaury
- Amelia Heinle as Rose/Rose of Cimarron
- J.D. Souther as Jed/Jesse James
- Peter Stormare as Cavin Guthrie
- Brian Markinson as Simon/Frank James
- Shannon Tweed as Goldie/Calamity Jane
- John David Souther as Jedediah "Jed" Calhoun
- James Coburn as Old Man at Hotel
Themes
The film explores themes of redemption, justice, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. It examines the idea of purgatory as a place for reflection and atonement, and how individuals can be forced to confront their past sins.
Reception
Purgatory received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised its unique premise and strong performances, while others found the execution to be uneven. The film's exploration of Western mythology and its moral themes were often cited as its strengths.