Review by beachbum_moviefan

I get that some reviewers say stuff like it is all over the place or it is maybe not what they expected, but I think it is because this is part of a long epic -- it is like a novel, with great setup, multiple characters and story lines, and vivid description (the scenery & cinematography). It's not all about Kevin Costner's character, it is about all the characters, and they way they react in this rough and violent world, and the conflict of cultures. The long, violent scene in the first third of the movie where the native americans and the white settlers are in conflict is beautiful and vividly done, and there is a masterful and dynamic contrast to the ending violent scene. This is comparable to a novel, so I hope people will be patient and value how much territory this movie covers, in multiple settings, ambitiously. It feels very real in the lawless conflct between people, and in that sense somewhat a reminder of how this kind of people interaction would still exist if not for our laws, legal enforcement, and the evolution of our society to better appreciate order. I was worried in the first 5-10 minutes, but then it surged forward with drama and I realized the beginning was symbolic of conflict to come, and was the same kind of patient introduction you see in masterful novels. It's not a perfect movie (yet), but it's really well acted and directed and written, and you have to respect Costner for pursuing his vision. Any and all Western fans are likely to appreciate this.