A Gunfight

  • 1971
  • PG
  • 89m
movieMx RATING
5.8
40
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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A Gunfight Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict

Last updated: May 16, 2026

movieMx Editorial
📅 Updated: May 16, 2026 🎟️ Verified Screening

Movie Overview: A Gunfight

MovieA Gunfight
Release Year1971
DirectorLamont Johnson
GenreWestern / Drama
Runtime89 minutes (1h 29m)
LanguageEN

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is A Gunfight (1971) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Western.

🎭 Cast & Character Study

The performances in A Gunfight are led by Johnny Cash . The supporting cast, including Kirk Douglas and Jane Alexander , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.

💡 movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?

After analyzing the verified data, our assessment of A Gunfight (1971) is mixed. It has its moments but fails to leave a lasting impression. With a platform rating of 5.8/10, it currently stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our database.

What Works in the Movie

While A Gunfight does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Western films.

  • Interesting concept or premise
  • Some entertaining scenes
  • Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights

What Doesn't Work

Despite its strengths, A Gunfight has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.

  • Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
  • Some predictable plot developments
  • May not appeal to audiences outside the Western fanbase

Story & Plot Summary: A Gunfight

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1971, A Gunfight is a Western, Drama film directed by Lamont Johnson, written by Harold Jack Bloom. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Johnny Cash as Abe Cross.

Ending Explained: A Gunfight

A Gunfight Ending Explained: Will Tenneray and Abe Cross are two aging, famous gunfighters, both in need of money. Directed by Lamont Johnson, this 1971 western film stars Johnny Cash (Abe Cross), alongside Kirk Douglas as Will Tenneray, Jane Alexander as Nora Tenneray, Karen Black as Jenny Simms. Rated 5.8/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.

What Happens at the End of A Gunfight?

Will Tenneray and Abe Cross are two aging, famous gunfighters, both in need of money. Tenneray comes up with the idea to stage a duel to the death in a bullfight arena, with the ticket proceeds going to the winner.

Lamont Johnson's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Johnny Cash (Abe Cross)'s journey. Tenneray comes up with the idea to stage a duel to the death in a bullfight arena, with the ticket proceeds going to the winner.

How Does Johnny Cash (Abe Cross)'s Story End?

  • Johnny Cash: Johnny Cash's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Kirk Douglas (Will Tenneray): Kirk Douglas's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Jane Alexander (Nora Tenneray): Jane Alexander's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of A Gunfight Mean?

The ending of A Gunfight brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Johnny Cash's story may not satisfy all audiences.

A Gunfight Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?

Is A Gunfight Based on a True Story?

No, A Gunfight is a work of fiction. While the western, drama film directed by Lamont Johnson and starring Johnny Cash may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.

Who Should Watch A Gunfight?

Age Advisory: Rated PG.

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Western films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment

At just 89 minutes, it's a quick watch.

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Where to Watch A Gunfight Online?

Streaming Hub

A Gunfight Parents Guide & Age Rating

1971 Advisory
PG

Official Age Rating

Wondering about A Gunfight age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

A Gunfight is rated PG. It is generally suitable for all ages.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of A Gunfight (1971) is 89 minutes (1h 29m). Directed by Lamont Johnson, the film runs for 89 minutes in its complete theatrical version.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.8/10, and global performance metrics, A Gunfight is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1971 cinematic calendar.

ABOVE AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for A Gunfight. Rating: 5.8/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Gunfight worth watching?

A Gunfight is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Western movies. It has a verified rating of 5.8/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find A Gunfight parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for A Gunfight identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the runtime of A Gunfight (1971)?

The runtime of A Gunfight (1971) is 89 minutes (approximately 1h 29m).

🛡️

movieMx Verified

This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.

This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.8
A Gunfight
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