Dive into the enigmatic world of “The Outrage” (1964), now available in a stunning colorized HD edition. This psychological western drama, directed by Martin Ritt, brings together a powerhouse cast led by Paul Newman and Laurence Harvey. Adapted from Akira Kurosawa’s legendary “Rashomon,” the film explores the elusive nature of truth through a gripping murder trial set in the rugged American Southwest. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema, westerns, or thought-provoking mysteries, this fully restored version of “The Outrage” promises a cinematic experience like no other.
Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, “The Outrage” unfolds at a desolate railway station where three strangers—a cynical con man, a disillusioned preacher, and a weary prospector—find themselves waiting for a train that rarely arrives. As they pass the time, they recount the sensational trial of Juan Carrasco, a notorious Mexican bandit accused of raping a woman and murdering her husband during a fateful journey through the desert.
Each man shares his own perspective on the crime, revealing four conflicting accounts of what truly happened in the wilderness. Was Carrasco a ruthless killer, a misunderstood lover, or simply a pawn in a tragic misunderstanding? The preacher, haunted by his own testimony, questions the very nature of justice and morality as the layers of deception are peeled away. The prospector, the con man, and the preacher each offer their own truths, leaving the audience to grapple with the ultimate question: can we ever know what really happened?
“The Outrage” features a remarkable ensemble, each delivering performances that elevate the film’s complex narrative:
Paul Newman as Juan Carrasco, the infamous bandit whose fate is at the heart of the story
Laurence Harvey as Colonel Wakefield, the aristocratic victim whose death sparks the trial
Claire Bloom as Nina Wakefield, the tormented wife whose testimony is as ambiguous as it is emotional
Edward G. Robinson as the Con Man, a cynical observer with a sharp tongue
William Shatner as the Preacher, whose faith is tested by the events he witnesses
Howard Da Silva as the Prospector, whose version of the story adds a final twist
Albert Salmi as the Sheriff
Thomas Chalmers as the Judge
Paul Fix as the Indian Shaman
While “The Outrage” is rooted in the western tradition, it transcends the genre by delving into psychological drama and moral ambiguity. The film blends elements of mystery, courtroom drama, and philosophical inquiry, making it a standout among 1960s American cinema. Its structure—recounting the same event from multiple, contradictory viewpoints—invites viewers to question the reliability of memory and the nature of truth itself.
“The Outrage” is a bold remake of Akira Kurosawa’s “Rashomon,” itself based on stories by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa. By transplanting the narrative to the American frontier, director Martin Ritt infuses the story with new cultural resonance, exploring themes of honor, violence, and survival in a lawless land. The film’s use of flashbacks and shifting perspectives pays homage to its Japanese predecessor while offering a uniquely American take on the material.
This colorized edition of “The Outrage” breathes new life into James Wong Howe’s original cinematography, highlighting the stark beauty of the desert landscape and the expressive faces of its cast. The digital restoration process has meticulously enhanced each frame, preserving the film’s dramatic shadows while adding depth and vibrancy to its visual storytelling. The result is a viewing experience that honors the film’s legacy while making it accessible to a new generation of audiences.
Director: Martin Ritt
Screenplay: Michael Kanin, based on works by Akira Kurosawa and Ryūnosuke Akutagawa
Cinematography: James Wong Howe
Music: Alex North
Production Company: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Runtime: 96 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Works on all major devices—smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
Upon its release, “The Outrage” was praised for its ambitious storytelling and standout performances, particularly Paul Newman’s intense portrayal of Juan Carrasco. While some critics noted the challenges of adapting “Rashomon” to a western setting, the film has since gained recognition for its bold narrative structure and its exploration of subjective truth. Its psychological depth and moral complexity continue to resonate with viewers, making it a must-see for fans of classic remakes and western dramas.
While primarily known as “The Outrage,” the film is sometimes referenced in discussions of American remakes of Japanese cinema or as “Rashomon in the West.” Its unique blend of genres and cross-cultural origins have made it a subject of interest for film scholars and enthusiasts alike.
Q: Is “The Outrage” a faithful remake of “Rashomon”?
A: While it closely follows the narrative structure and themes of “Rashomon,” “The Outrage” adapts the story to the American West, adding new cultural and historical layers.
Q: Who are the leading actors in “The Outrage”?
A: Paul Newman and Laurence Harvey headline the cast, supported by Claire Bloom, Edward G. Robinson, and William Shatner.
Q: What makes the colorized version special?
A: The colorized edition enhances the film’s visual impact, highlighting the desert setting and the emotional intensity of the performances.
Q: What genres does “The Outrage” combine?
A: The film is a blend of psychological drama, western, mystery, and courtroom thriller.
Experience the gripping mystery and psychological drama of “The Outrage” (1964) in stunning colorized HD—download your copy today!