I think I'll chalk this up as a guilty pleasure. This female-driven Western was absolutely trounced by the critics upon its release, and I honestly can't argue with them. Much of this is a rather unpleasant experience as the four spunky heroines are not only repeatedly referred to in negative connotation from first moment to last, but they are also subjected to various bouts of violence that feel very uncomfortable at times. The male characters are either ruthless scoundrels or smooth-skinned saints. The plot is predictable and performances sketchy. And yet... AND YET... I have to admit that the movie held my attention, and I was for the most part entertained. There is something contagious about watching these actresses obviously having the time of their lives, even when the posing and posturing feels like they're doing a shoot for ELLE magazine. And I will argue that Stowe actually has some great moments and holds the movie together. There is also an affectionate relationship between MacDowell and Barrymore that feels very authentic. I'm not a Westerns fan, and this will not persuade me to think differently. But for what it is, hey, it wasn't the worst time I've ever had watching a movie.
