In our first regular-format episode, we invite you to join us for an exploration of the 1957 western Black Patch, starring George Montgomery, Leo Gordon, Diane Brewster, Tom Pittman, and Sebastian Cabot. Your humble hosts Jens, Yavar, and Clark discuss the ways in which this low-budget western succeeds and struggles in its efforts to buck formula. Black Patch also bears the important distinction of being the first feature film to be scored by Jerry Goldsmith, who takes a deceptively intelligent psychological approach to the material. We explore some of his assorted thematic ideas and standout musical moments, including a dynamic action piece and a genuinely gorgeous romantic sequence. Saddle up and enjoy!

Note: Clark and Yavar are still learning how to use computers. Please be aware of this before writing us about the audio quality of this episode.

The Work: Black Patch on Warner Archive

In Depth: Yavar's liner notes for Black Patch

Please send your correspondence to [email protected].