The film’s direction is a hybrid of two different styles, leading to the creation of a legendary Hollywood alias:

Don Siegel (known for Dirty Harry ) was brought in to finish the shoot, filming for about 9–10 days.

Original director Robert Totten clashed with lead actor Richard Widmark , leading to his firing after 25 days.

Neither director felt the final cut represented their specific vision. The Directors Guild of America (DGA) created the name "Allen Smithee" (later "Alan") as a way for directors to disown a project.

The 1969 Western is famously known as the first film credited to the Hollywood pseudonym "Alan Smithee" . Despite the behind-the-scenes turmoil that led to this fake credit, the movie is regarded by critics as a "surprisingly solid" and "extraordinary" revisionist Western. 🎬 Production & The "Alan Smithee" Legend

Set at the turn of the 20th century in Cottonwood Springs, Texas, the story follows the "passing of the Old West".

When released, the New York Times and Roger Ebert praised the "new" director Smithee for his sharp and effective direction. 🤠 Plot & Themes