Cast of Mackenna’s Gold (1969): A Legendary Lineup of Talent
Mackenna’s Gold, released in 1969, is a classic Western film that has captured the hearts of moviegoers for decades. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, this epic adventure boasts an all-star cast that brings the story to life with their magnetic performances. Let’s take a closer look at the cast of Mackenna’s Gold and the unforgettable characters they portrayed.
1. Gregory Peck as Sheriff Mackenna: The legendary Gregory Peck takes on the lead role of Sheriff Mackenna, a conflicted lawman who finds himself caught in the middle of a gold rush. Peck’s commanding presence and nuanced performance make him the perfect choice for this complex character.
2. Omar Sharif as Colorado: Omar Sharif shines as Colorado, a bandit with a heart of gold. His charismatic portrayal adds depth and charm to the film, and his chemistry with Peck is undeniable.
3. Telly Savalas as Sergeant Tibbs: Telly Savalas brings his signature intensity to the role of Sergeant Tibbs, a ruthless army officer determined to get his hands on the gold. Savalas’ performance is both menacing and captivating.
4. Camilla Sparv as Inga Bergmann: Camilla Sparv plays Inga Bergmann, a mysterious and seductive woman who becomes a pivotal figure in the hunt for the gold. Sparv’s performance adds an element of intrigue to the story.
5. Julie Newmar as Hesh-Ke: Julie Newmar, known for her iconic role as Catwoman in the Batman TV series, plays Hesh-Ke, a Native American woman who aids Mackenna on his journey. Newmar’s grace and beauty bring a touch of elegance to the film.
6. Keenan Wynn as Sanchez: Keenan Wynn steals the scenes he appears in as Sanchez, a crafty outlaw with a knack for survival. Wynn’s comedic timing and memorable performance make him a standout in the cast.
7. Ted Cassidy as Hachita: Ted Cassidy, best known for his role as Lurch in The Addams Family, takes on the role of Hachita, a towering Apache warrior. Cassidy’s imposing presence adds a sense of danger and excitement to the film.
8. Lee J. Cobb as The Editor: Lee J. Cobb brings gravitas to the role of The Editor, a newspaperman who becomes entangled in the search for gold. Cobb’s performance adds depth and wisdom to the story.
9. Raymond Massey as The Preacher: Raymond Massey delivers a memorable performance as The Preacher, a religious figure who becomes obsessed with the gold. Massey’s portrayal is both haunting and captivating.
10. Burgess Meredith as The Storekeeper: Burgess Meredith, known for his role as The Penguin in the Batman TV series, plays The Storekeeper, a wise and enigmatic character. Meredith’s portrayal brings a touch of eccentricity to the film.
11. Eduardo Ciannelli as Old Adams: Eduardo Ciannelli plays Old Adams, a weathered prospector who holds crucial information about the location of the gold. Ciannelli’s performance is filled with vulnerability and wisdom.
12. Eli Wallach as Ben Baker: Eli Wallach, renowned for his roles in spaghetti Westerns, appears as Ben Baker, a treacherous outlaw with his eyes on the gold. Wallach’s performance is both menacing and captivating.
13. Edward G. Robinson as Old Adams: Edward G. Robinson, an acting legend, also takes on the role of Old Adams. His portrayal adds a sense of gravitas and authenticity to the film.
FAQs:
1. Is Mackenna’s Gold based on a true story?
No, Mackenna’s Gold is a work of fiction.
2. Where was Mackenna’s Gold filmed?
The movie was primarily filmed in Arizona, Utah, and Mexico.
3. Who composed the film’s score?
The score was composed by Quincy Jones.
4. Did Mackenna’s Gold receive any awards?
No, the film did not receive any major awards.
5. Is Mackenna’s Gold available on DVD or Blu-ray?
Yes, the film is available on both DVD and Blu-ray.
6. How long is the runtime of Mackenna’s Gold?
The film has a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes.
7. What is the plot of Mackenna’s Gold?
The film follows Sheriff Mackenna as he searches for a legendary canyon filled with gold, while being pursued by various characters with their own motives.
8. When was Mackenna’s Gold released?
Mackenna’s Gold was released on May 10, 1969.
9. How did Mackenna’s Gold perform at the box office?
The film was a commercial success, grossing over $10 million worldwide.
10. Did the cast perform their own stunts?
While some of the cast members performed their own stunts, many were performed by professional stunt doubles.
11. Are there any notable behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the film?
During the filming of Mackenna’s Gold, there were several incidents involving dangerous stunts and extreme weather conditions.
12. Has Mackenna’s Gold inspired any other films or TV shows?
While there haven’t been any direct adaptations, the film’s themes of greed and adventure have influenced subsequent Westerns.
13. What is the legacy of Mackenna’s Gold?
Mackenna’s Gold remains a beloved classic among Western enthusiasts, known for its all-star cast and thrilling storyline.
In conclusion, the cast of Mackenna’s Gold is a true ensemble of legendary talent. Each actor brings their unique charisma and skill to their respective roles, elevating the film to a must-watch for fans of the Western genre. With its memorable characters, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling storyline, Mackenna’s Gold continues to captivate audiences over 50 years after its release.
