Is Reprisal! Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Reprisal! is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Western movies.
It features a runtime of 74 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Reprisal! Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1956, Reprisal! emerges as a significant entry in the Western domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of New ranch owner Frank Madden, half Indian but posing as white, arrives just as an all white jury finds the three white Shipley brothers who lynched three Indians innocent. Unlike standard genre fare, Reprisal! attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Western is often anchored by its ensemble, and Reprisal! features a noteworthy lineup led by Guy Madison . Supported by the likes of Felicia Farr and Kathryn Grant , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Reprisal! (1956) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.2/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Reprisal! Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Reprisal! is a Western film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Reprisal! Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Reprisal! resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to western resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the western themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Reprisal! reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Reprisal!?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Western films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Reprisal!
- Guy Madison – Frank Madden
- Felicia Farr – Catherine Cantrell
- Kathryn Grant – Taini
- Michael Pate – Bert Shipley
- Edward Platt – Neil Shipley
Top Highlights
Guy MadisonFrank Madden
Felicia FarrCatherine Cantrell
Kathryn GrantTaini
Michael PateBert Shipley
Edward PlattNeil Shipley
Otto HulettSheriff Jim Dixon
Frank De KovaCharlie Washackle
Wayne MalloryTom Shipley
Robert BurtonJeb Cantrell
Ralph MoodyMatara
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Reprisal! is rated NR.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.2/10, and global collection metrics, Reprisal! stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1956 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reprisal! movie hit or flop?
Reprisal! is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.2/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Western movies.
Is Reprisal! worth watching?
Yes, Reprisal! is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Western cinema.
Where can I watch Reprisal! online?
Reprisal! may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Reprisal!
How Reprisal! Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Reprisal!
Never be ashamed of your blood. Reprisal! Is directed by George Sherman and written by David P. Harmon, Raphael Hayes and David Dortort. It stars Guy Madison, Felicia Farr, Kathryn Grant, Michael Pate, Edward Platt, Otto Hulett, Wayne Mallory and Frank De Kova. Music is by Mischa Bakaleinikof and Technicolor cinematography by Henry Freulich. Frank Madden (Madison) is half white, half Indian, in order to be allowed to own his own land in the County of Kendall, Texas, he keeps his half-breed status a secret. Acquiring a ranch and land, Madden quickly falls foul of the Shipley brothers, a trio of thugs known to be Indian killers and intent on making Madden tow their party line. Nice, in fact something of a treat for Western fans. On plot terms it doesn’t sound like much, the sort of run-of-the-mill Oater so prevalent in the 1950s, but there’s a lot going on psychologically here to run along side the shoot em’ ups, fisticuffs and simmering passions. It starts off very strongly with a court case as the Shipley brothers are on trial for lynching two Indians, clearly guilty, they of course get off because most of the town are Indian haters. This instantly sets it up for half-breed Madden to be constantly at war with himself, he wants to just settle down and earn a crust, but can he keep turning the other cheek as his half kin are abused and used by the very townsfolk he rubs shoulders with? He keeps winding up in situations where someone needs his help, and it frustrates him greatly, and when his Indian grandfather appears on the scene to offer some sage advice, his emotional confliction goes up still further. The back drop is a town bursting at the seams with racial tensions, then throw in revenge, mob justice, inter-racial lust and murders, you got yourself a film packing in as much as it can in its relatively short running time. It looks nice with photography out of Tuscon, the acting is up to the standard of the production, Grant and Farr are twin delights for the eyes, and Sherman once again proves to be a good old pro who knew his way around a Western. One of the better “B” Westerns of 1956, well worth catching by duster fans if the chance arises. 7.5/10
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
