Silverado: More Than Just a Gleaming Western Gem
The Western genre is vast and wild. Each film can shine, like gold nuggets in a pan. One standout is "Silverado." In today's streaming world, you may wonder if this 1985 film is worth your time. Spoiler alert: it's not just good. It’s nearly essential.
Is Silverado a Good Western Movie? Hold Your Horses, It's Great!
Let's get straight to the point. Is "Silverado" a good Western? Yes, it's great. But let's not throw around superlatives like confetti. What makes this film stand out? Critics and audiences agree. It's about simplicity and human elements, not flashy effects. In an age of CGI, this charm endures.
Think about it. How many films today get lost in effects? Most forget that at the heart are humans. "Silverado" remembers. It shows four cowboys: Emmett, Paden, Jake, and Mal. Each has a unique past, a reason for their journey, and their grit. Their stories intertwine and clash in classic and fresh ways. This focus on character elevates the film beyond ordinary shoot-'em-ups.
Some may argue about the two-hour runtime. One review stated, “Excellent but overlong.” Is it lengthy? Maybe. Yet, like a ride through scenic beauty, you may not want it to end too fast. Plus, would you want to cut any scenes with young Kevin Costner or witty Kevin Kline? Probably not.
If you typically avoid Westerns, think of them as relics. "Silverado" may change your mind. It has classic tropes: landscapes, chases, standoffs, and saloon brawls. But it delivers with a wink, blending fun and adventure. It's respectful of its roots while entertaining for modern viewers. If you bypass Westerns, "Silverado" offers many reasons to dive in.
Silverado's Dusty Stage: Where the West Was (Actually) Filmed
Location magic makes a great Western. Vast sunlit landscapes and rugged terrain inspire the feeling of riding into the sunset. "Silverado" achieves this, thanks to the Cook Ranch in New Mexico.
Cerro Pelon Ranch: Hollywood's Western Playground
However, there's a slight twist in our trail. The Cook Ranch is now called Cerro Pelon Ranch. No worries; we’re not facing any Western Bermuda Triangle. Cerro Pelon Ranch is nestled in Santa Fe County. It’s not just a backdrop; it’s a character itself, hosting many Hollywood productions.
Cerro Pelon Ranch has featured iconic films like "Lonesome Dove," "Wild Wild West," and "Thor." Its versatility shines through as it showcases the classic Western aesthetic. When watching "Silverado," you're witnessing Hollywood history. Many cinematic dreams have come to life here.
Cook Ranch in New Mexico: The Heart of Silverado
Again, the heart of "Silverado’s" scenes is indeed Cook Ranch in New Mexico. Director Lawrence Kasdan and crew crafted the town of Silverado and its vistas here. The ranch offers sprawling land and diverse terrain, making it perfect for film's epic scope. Rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and iconic light contribute to the authentic feel.
The Mythical Town of Silverado: Boom and Bust in Timber Canyon
Now, let’s discuss Silverado as a town. In the film, it hustles with activity and danger at every turn. But is a real Silverado town behind the movie? Sort of. The film town is fictional but inspired by real boom towns.
Its backstory is interesting. It’s "located in Canada de la Madera (Timber Canyon)." The town was a "mining boom town founded in 1878." This reflects the real-life history of towns during rushes, showcasing vibrant, short-lived existences. Serving stagecoach routes from Los Angeles, this town illustrates a bustling frontier outpost.
Is the Movie Set of Silverado Still Standing? Ghost Town Glory
Here’s a treat for fans. The town built for "Silverado" still stands and thrives today. Created in 1985 as a set, it has evolved over the years. It's been "expanded and updated," with usable structures replacing mere facades. Imagine a “wild west” ghost town brought to life for a film.
This turned real town awaits discovery. It highlights the enduring appeal of Westerns and the craftsmanship involved. While you can’t book at the Silverado saloon, you can visit and experience movie magic in a tangible way. It offers a unique glimpse into "Silverado" and broader American West mythology.
Silverado's Sunset... But No Sequel in Sight
As credits roll and Kevin Costner rides into the sunset, one question remains: Where's the sequel? With such a loved film, a "Silverado 2" seemed inevitable, right? Sadly, not so much. Despite that farewell promise, there was no sequel.
Why No Silverado Sequel? Box Office Blues and Cult Classic Status
The absence of a sequel comes down to classic Hollywood: box office performance. While "Silverado" wasn’t a flop, its box office didn’t scream for a sequel. Sometimes good films need major success for follow-ups. "Silverado," while critically received, perhaps didn't reach blockbuster heights.
However, there's a twist here. Like a slow fire, "Silverado" has grown in popularity over time.
The film quietly gathers a solid fanbase. It creates new fans constantly. It has become a cult classic. People discover it after years. We may never see an official "Silverado" sequel. Yet, the film's legacy lives on. Its popularity is like a sequel, shared across generations of viewers.
Silverado's Cast: Heroes, Villains, and More
The film features an impressive cast. Each actor delivers memorable performances. From brave cowboys to sinister villains, all characters stick with you. Let's look closer at the key figures in this Western tale.
Sheriff Cobb: The Villain You Can Understand
When you think of "bad guy," Sheriff Cobb often comes to mind. Brian Dennehy plays him well. Yet, Cobb is more than a flat villain. His character is intricate, making him fascinating. One viewer expressed, "Cobb is my favorite. Dennehy brings depth to him. He is not simply evil."
Cobb can be seen as charming and funny. He isn’t cruel or threatening all the time. He has a likable side. This complexity makes his villainy troubling. He trades his morals for power. Dennehy captures this duality perfectly. He is a villain you almost empathize with. You root for the heroes against him. "Hats off to Dennehy as Cobb." He steals scenes effortlessly. A great villain is one you love to hate.
David Carradine's Role in Silverado
You might ask, "Did Carradine star in 'Silverado'?" It's a bit complicated. Carradine isn't a main character. Yet, he does appear. A promotional photo confirms this: "SILVERADO DANNY GLOVER, KEVIN COSTNER, DAVID CARRADINE, KEVIN KLINE Date: 1985." He was likely in a minor role. This fun fact connects to the film's diverse talent.
Thomas Wilson Brown as Augie: The Young Cowboy
Moving to New Mexico as a pre-teen helped Brown. His horse-riding skills got him cast in "Silverado." Sometimes real-life talent helps on screen. Brown brings energy and authenticity to Augie's character. This makes him relatable among the older cowboys.
Earl Hindman: More than Wilson Wilson Jr.
You may know Earl Hindman from "Home Improvement." He played Wilson Wilson Jr., whose face we rarely saw. However, Hindman's talents extend beyond that role. He also appears in "Silverado." "Hindman plays J.T. in the film Silverado (1985)." His character, though minor, adds richness to the film.
What Happened to Jake? An Off-Screen Sadness
For fans curious about Jake's fate, here's the off-screen story. We don't directly see Jake in the film. His absence marks a poignant point in the narrative. Augie shares with Emmett, "Jake fell off his horse and died in a ravine." This abrupt end highlights the Old West's harshness.
Silverado's Historical Ties: Real Places and Myths
"Silverado" is fictional but rooted in real history. The film takes inspiration from actual events and locations. Let's discover some historical connections in the story.
Does the Town of Silverado Still Exist?
Is Silverado a real place? Yes, it is. "Silverado is an unincorporated community in Silverado Canyon, California." This community is in eastern Orange County, surrounded by mountains. It connects to silver mining history, reflective of the film's setting.
Silverado: Not in Texas, but True in Spirit
You might wonder if Silverado exists in Texas. The movie doesn't take place there, while real Silverado is in California. Nevertheless, the essence of "Silverado" reflects real places. "Silverado" isn't linked to any specific town. It represents a type of town, a boom place where thrills and dangers mix.
While filmed at Cerro Pelon Ranch, it isn't named "Silverado." Yet, this ranch embodies the essence of the fictional town. It serves as a stand-in for where cowboy tales thrive.
Production Insights: Music, Money, and Firsts
Great films come from dedicated teams. "Silverado" had notable people behind it. Let's explore some production details.
Bruce Broughton's Score: The Soundtrack
Music sets a film's tone and impact. "Silverado" features a memorable score by Bruce Broughton. His composition captures the Wild West spirit perfectly. The orchestral sounds evoke emotion, enhancing both action and quiet moments.
Did Silverado Profit? Box Office Success
From a financial view, "Did 'Silverado' make money?" Yes, it was profitable. "The 1985 film made over $32 million on a $23 million budget." It proved financially viable without being a blockbuster.
In addition to profits, "Silverado" received critical praise. "It holds a 78% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes." This blend of financial gain and acclaim secured "Silverado's" strong position in Western cinematic history.
Kevin Costner's First Western Role: Rising Star
"Silverado" marks Kevin Costner's debut in Westerns. It was a pivotal moment.
Kevin Costner's "Silverado" marked his first true Western. He had had some Western-adjacent roles. "Silverado" launched him fully into the genre. That year also saw "Pale Rider," featuring Clint Eastwood. "Pale Rider" performed well on a smaller budget. In contrast, "Silverado" grossed only $32 million against a $25 million budget.
Despite the box office struggles, "Silverado" was vital for Costner. It showcased his screen presence. The film opened doors for later successes. His future works include "Dances with Wolves" and "Wyatt Earp."
Silverado Trucks: From Silver Screen to Asphalt Jungle
Let’s switch topics to Chevy Silverado trucks. The name "Silverado" connects to both a movie and a truck line. It’s not just for cowboys. What’s the connection? Let's explore.
Why Silverado? Mining Town Inspiration for a Truck Name
Silverado Truck Talk: Model Years, MPG, and More
We’ll address common questions about Chevy Silverados. If you seek a used Silverado, you might ask, "Which ones should I avoid?" Consumer reports list models to steer clear of. The 2014, 2015, and 2017 Silverado 1500 have many complaints. The 2019 model also has issues and recalls.
So, "What was the worst year for Chevy Silverado?" The answer remains similar. The worst years include 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2017. They experienced engine and transmission issues. These problems are serious for any vehicle.
If you care about fuel economy, "How many miles does a Chevy Silverado 1500 diesel get?" Diesel Silverados provide good fuel efficiency. Expect about 23 mpg in the city and 29 on highways for two-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive models yield about 26 mpg.
You may wonder, "Which is better, GMC or Silverado?" This debate continues amongst truck enthusiasts. The Sierra 1500 offers combined mpg ranges from 16 to 24. The Chevrolet Silverado pulls ahead with better mileage. Turbocharged engines yield 18-22 mpg combined. It often comes down to personal choice.
Ever curious about the "K" in some Chevy truck names? The "C/K nomenclature comes from earlier models. "C" means two-wheel-drive. "K" indicates four-wheel-drive. So, a K-series Silverado is four-wheel-drive.
For off-road fans, "What does Z71 mean?" Z71 is for off-road package upgrades. This package enhances a vehicle's performance off the beaten path. A Z71 badge means readiness for adventure.
Comparatively, "What lasts longer, Silverado or F-150?" The Chevy Silverado 1500 offers a Duramax diesel engine, known for longevity. You also might face fewer maintenance problems. The 2023 Ford F-150 lacks a diesel option, affecting durability.
Returning to truck history, "What are old Chevy trucks called?" The Chevrolet C/K series ran from 1960 to 2002. The Silverado replaced this series as its successor.
Regarding size, "How much longer is a Silverado than a Colorado?" The 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 surpasses Colorado in size, cargo capacity, and seating. The Silverado measures over 231 inches long, nearly 20 inches longer than Colorado.
Related Western Tidbits: Cerro Pelon, David Carradine, and Cowboy Lore
Our "Silverado" exploration reveals more intriguing details. From Cerro Pelon’s meaning to David Carradine's martial arts skills, let’s dive deeper.
Cerro Pelon Explained: The "Hairless Hill" of Movie Fame
Cerro Pelon Ranch served as a filming site for "Silverado." "What does Cerro Pelon mean?" It means "Hairless Hill." Cerro Pelon is in Santa Fe County, New Mexico. It’s a notable movie location with a descriptive name based on Spanish.
David Carradine's Kung Fu Skills: Fact vs. Fiction
David Carradine appeared in "Silverado." He is known for the TV series "Kung Fu." "Did he have martial arts training before the show?" Surprisingly, no. He learned martial arts while filming the series.
David Carradine's Death: A Tragic End
Sadly, Carradine's life ended abruptly. "What caused his death?" He died from asphyxiation on June 4, 2009, in Bangkok. The medical examiner ruled it an accidental death.
Old Chevy Trucks Revisited: C/K Legacy
Earlier, we spoke about old Chevy trucks. "What are they called?" The Chevrolet C/K series ran from 1960 to 2002 before the Silverado took its place.
New Mexico Movie Magic: The Cowboys' Filming Locale
Cerro Pelon isn’t the only notable film site in New Mexico. "Where was The Cowboys filmed?" Locations include Chama, Galisteo, and Santa Fe. New Mexico has become a popular spot for Western movies.
Pelon in Mexican Slang: Beyond Hairlessness
Cerro de Punta: Puerto Rico's Peak
Don't confuse "Cerro Pelon" with "Cerro de Punta." "What does Cerro de Punta mean?" It refers to the highest peak in Puerto Rico, distinct from the hairless hill in New Mexico.
William S Hart: Cinema's First Cowboy Hero
"Who was the first cowboy hero?" William S. Hart, born in 1864, acted in over 70 films. He often portrayed reformed outlaws and shaped Western cinema.
Thus ends our thorough journey through "Silverado." We explored its cinematic impact and real-world connections, including a look at Chevy trucks. "Silverado" shines as a classic Western, captivating audiences and celebrating tales of the Old West.
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