There's no doubt that it goes too far in almost every direction-but that touch of obsession is exactly what saves

King Vidor's direction keeps the playing in step with production aims. He pitches the action to heights in the top moments and generally holds the overall mood desired.

Oh, brother-if only the dramatics were up to the technical style!

The delirious, extravagant final scene elevates Duel in the Sun into the stratosphere of the greats.