Journal Entry 2/16/2026
"Lauran Pain's novel, 'Open Range Men' is one of the most gripping and harsh realities faced by cowboys and cattle drivers in the American West."
Actor Robert Duvall played many powerful roles as an Actor. The one I found to be most interesting was "Open Range," with Kevin Coster.
Duvall is the heart and soul of that movie. While Kevin Costner handles a lot of the action, Duvall provides the moral authority and the "old school" grit. Owning land is one of the greatest achievements a man can be proud of; but when threatened, a man has to stand up for what he believes in because in his heart, he knows it's true. Last year I took a class on the Open Range and learned a lot about Robert Duvall and the author, Lauran Paine. Here are his greatest moments from the film:
1. The "Man’s Got a Right to Protect His Property" Speech
One of Duvall’s best scenes happens early on when he confronts the corrupt Sheriff Poole and the land baron Denton Baxter. Standing in the rain, he doesn't shout; he uses that calm, gravelly authority to let them know he isn't moving. It establishes Boss as a man of immense principle who won't be bullied.
2. The Tea Set Scene
In a rare moment of tenderness and humor, Boss and Charley (Costner) are in Sue Barlow’s (Annette Bening) home. Watching the rugged, weathered Duvall try to be delicate with a tiny china teacup is acting gold. It shows the vulnerability beneath the tough exterior—a man who hasn't been in a "civilized" room in years.
3. Buying the Chocolate and Cigars
Before the final showdown, Boss goes into town to buy some expensive Swiss chocolate and cigars. It’s a classic "last meal" moment. Duvall plays it with a sense of grim acceptance; he knows he might die, so he’s going to enjoy the finest things he can find first. His interaction with the shopkeeper is both funny and poignant.
4. "I'm the One Killed Your Boy"
During the climactic gunfight, Boss confronts Butler (the man who killed their young friend Mose). Instead of just shooting, he makes sure Butler knows exactly who is sending him to his grave. The sheer intensity in Duvall’s eyes during the shootout proves that even in his 70s, he could be the most intimidating man on screen.
5. The Final Conversation with Charley
The chemistry between Duvall and Costner is what makes the movie work. Their final scenes, where they discuss the future and the changing West, feel incredibly earned. Duvall captures the essence of a man who has finally found peace after a lifetime of looking over his shoulder.
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