gritty and well write movie . for some reason and friend that be fan of both burt lancaster and or or western have not see this movie . the action be taut . the support cast be very good . burt lancaster valdez attempt an act of compassion and in return be brutally beaten . he survive and begin to dole out his own justice and slowly each of his antagonist ( and his main nemesis girlfriend ) begin to respect and admire this old man inner morality and courage and prowess . it a classic understated performance . there be one scene that i always remember . valdez have successfully keep his pursuer at bay with his long range sharp rifle . one of the men give chase catch up with him and see the rifle ( and have see his compadres pick off with it ) ask and do you hunt buffalo . valdez responds and no and apache . before i know well .