A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST (2014)

Summary:

Set in the unforgiving Arizona frontier of 1882, "A Million Ways to Die in the West" follows Albert Stark, a cowardly sheep farmer who finds his life constantly imperiled by the brutal realities of the Wild West. After losing a gunfight and subsequently being dumped by his materialistic girlfriend, Louise, Albert is convinced that the only sensible thing to do is leave town. However, his plans are disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious and beautiful woman named Anna.

Anna, a skilled sharpshooter with a hidden past, helps Albert discover his courage and refine his shooting skills, rekindling his self-respect and developing a deep affection between them. Their growing romance is complicated by the imminent arrival of Anna's notorious outlaw husband, Clinch Leatherwood, who is seeking revenge. Albert must now face his fears and prove himself in a final, dangerous showdown to save himself and the woman he loves.

Keywords: A Million Ways to Die in the West, 2014, Seth MacFarlane, Charlize Theron, Liam Neeson, Western, Comedy.

Plot:

Albert Stark, a peace-loving and perpetually unlucky sheep farmer in the small town of Old Stump, Arizona, detests the dangerous and primitive nature of the American frontier in 1882. After cowardly withdrawing from a duel, his superficial girlfriend Louise breaks up with him for the more successful, albeit odious, Foy. Despondent and convinced he belongs elsewhere, Albert plans to abandon the dangerous West, much to the chagrin of his best friend Edward and Edward's prostitute girlfriend Ruth. Before he can leave, a beautiful and enigmatic woman named Anna rides into town and quickly befriends Albert, offering to help him win Louise back and, more importantly, teach him to shoot.

As Anna patiently trains Albert and helps him confront his inner demons, their bond deepens, and Albert falls in love with her, unaware that she is married to Clinch Leatherwood, the most feared outlaw in the territory. Clinch soon arrives in Old Stump, having heard of his wife's infidelity, and demands a duel with Albert. Terrified, Albert initially flees but, encouraged by Edward and realizing his feelings for Anna, he returns to face Clinch. Through a combination of luck, newfound courage, and a clever ruse, Albert manages to outsmart and defeat Clinch, saving Anna and finally earning the respect of the town and himself.

Cast (Lead Roles):

• Seth MacFarlane as Albert Stark
• Charlize Theron as Anna Barnes-Leatherwood
• Liam Neeson as Clinch Leatherwood
• Amanda Seyfried as Louise
• Giovanni Ribisi as Edward
• Neil Patrick Harris as Foy

Crew:

• Director: Seth MacFarlane
• Writers: Seth MacFarlane, Alec Sulkin, Wellesley Wild
• Producers: Seth MacFarlane, Scott Stuber
• Music by: Joel McNeely

Release Info:

• Original Release Date: May 30, 2014
• Language: English
• Genre: Western, Comedy
• Running Time: 116 minutes
• Accolades: Mixed critical reception; no major awards.