The Warrant: Breaker's Law

A warrant brings Marshal John Breaker and Deputy Bugle Bearclaw, cross-country to deliver a dangerous criminal. But, when they make a stand on behalf of a judge, can they defend a small town from the most ruthless gang in the West? The trick to enjoying this film is to not expect too much. It's a B movie western with typical cheese story, cheese dialogue and cheese acting. It's the kind of film that we thought was cheesy even in the 70's. Neal McDonough and Dermot Mulroney can't lift this faded old relic of a film enough to make me want to pause while I take a telephone call. I was actually glad of the interruption. If you are a big fan of any of the actors, or a big fan of westerns, you might enjoy it on some level anyway. I would only put it on as background noise if I was playing with the kids.

Neal McDonough is back as John Breaker and better than ever in this 2nd Warrant movie. The action and saltiness, along with the occasional comic relief, creates a perfect classic western that eclipses the 1st installment. The story picks up with Breaker once again serving a warrant and arresting the bad guy, only this time as a Federal Marshal. He's accompanied by Bugle Bearclaw (played with aplomb by Gregory Cruz) who is a true friend and "brother" who provides not just trustworthy shooting in tight spots but also humor and accountability. Breaker's depth in this outing pushes his boundaries on law, order, and doing the right thing when it's easier not to, which all add to a well rounded and relatable struggle between his job and his feelings about those he's trying to bring to justice. Dermot Mulroney is well-suited as the villain and does a great job countering McDonough and Cruz while Bruce Boxleitner and Amy Hargreaves are far from the weak bullied townsfolk in more modern westerns. Nick Searcy also adds some layers with his Colonel Dredge, a cranky figure who thinks Breaker is headed into a worthless fight. The plot twists in this range from interesting to excellent with a firecracker ending that is both surprising and pleasing. If you're a fan of classic westerns that are clean and moral without being preachy then you should enjoy this movie. As someone raised on old westerns I greatly appreciated its dusty setting, great acting, and excellent portrayal of good vs. Bad guys.