Quick Summary
Valdez Is Coming is a gritty Western movie starring Burt Lancaster as a relentless Mexican lawman who kidnaps the wife of a treacherous rancher, delivering relentless revenge and high‑octane shoot‑outs. This movie offers Great! action programming at a glance for UK television, perfect for British TV fans seeking drama and entertainment in their television guide quick overview, whether you’re watching an episode, a series, a documentary or a standalone film. Programme highlights include relentless tension, classic star power and a thrilling ride for UK viewers.
About This Program
Programme overview Valdez Is Coming is a 1971 western film starring Burt Lancaster as the vengeful Mexican lawman, Juan Valdez, and Susan Clark as the kidnapped wife of a treacherous rancher. Adapted from Elmore Leonard’s novel, the movie blends gritty frontier justice with sharp, Leonard‑style dialogue. The story follows Valdez after he is left for dead by a rancher who double‑crosses him; Valdez tracks the man, kidnaps his wife, and forces a tense showdown that tests loyalty and honour. For UK television fans this classic western offers a rare glimpse of Lancaster’s commanding screen presence in a genre that has long fascinated British audiences. What to expect from the content The programme delivers a tightly paced, 105‑minute drama that balances action with character‑driven moments. Viewers will experience sweeping desert vistas, tense standoffs, and a moral ambiguity that sets the film apart from more straightforward westerns. The script retains Leonard’s witty repartee, while the cinematography captures the stark beauty of the American Southwest – a visual treat for anyone who appreciates high‑quality film production. Subtitles are available for those who prefer to watch with the original English audio, ensuring accessibility for all UK viewers. Key features and highlights - A powerhouse performance by Burt Lancaster, whose rugged charisma anchors the narrative. - Susan Clark’s nuanced portrayal of a woman caught between duty and survival, adding depth to the drama. - Authentic period costumes and set design that transport audiences to the 1870s frontier. - A memorable musical score that underscores the tension without overwhelming the dialogue. - The film’s inclusion in Great! Action programming, positioning it alongside other high‑octane titles that appeal to fans of classic action and western entertainment. Why this programme appeals to UK audiences British TV viewers have a long‑standing affection for westerns, dating back to the heyday of ITV’s “The Adventures of Sir Lancelot” and the later cult following of spaghetti westerns. Valdez Is Coming offers a sophisticated take that resonates with contemporary tastes for morally complex stories and strong character arcs. The film’s themes of revenge, justice, and personal honour echo the classic British drama tradition, while the exotic setting provides an escapist thrill. Moreover, the involvement of a Hollywood legend like Lancaster adds a touch of nostalgic glamour that many UK viewers find compelling. Context within Great! Action programming Within the Great! Action programming block, Valdez Is Coming serves as a flagship movie that bridges classic western cinema with modern action sensibilities. It complements the channel’s lineup of high‑energy series and documentaries, offering a full‑length feature that enriches the overall entertainment offering. By placing this western alongside contemporary action series, Great! Action provides a comprehensive guide for UK television audiences seeking both nostalgic and fresh adrenaline‑pumping content, reinforcing its reputation as a destination for quality drama and movie entertainment.
Valdez Is Coming broadcasts on Great! Action at 5:31pm, Sunday, 21 September 2025.