Posted on August 7, 2009 - by Hubba

Hubba at the Movies

Wagons East

Year: 1994

Director: Peter Markle

Starring: John Candy, Richard Lewis, Ellen Greene, John C. McGinley

John Candy died during the filming of this movie in Durango Mexico, although they must have been almost done.  It’s the story of a bunch of disgruntled pioneers who hire John Harlow (Candy) to pilot their wagon train east, back to St. Louis.

Although there are cliche moments (mostly provided by Richard Lewis) the rest of the movie is brilliantly hilarious, at least to me.  At one point the U.S. Cavalry is about to attack the wagon train, which incidentally is being protected by the Sioux, and the commander calls for the “big horn.”  After an exchange with his doubtful lieutenant, the commander’s order stands, and the charge is sounded on a Sousaphone.  There is more than enough brilliant western satire to get past the cliched scenes in the movie.

Quotable Line: Minor character “We can’t hire this useless drunk-with all due respect, Mr. Harlow.”

John Harlow: “Respect taken!”

Rating: One and a half thumbs up!

Grab the popcorn and watch it on Hulu right now.