Weren't they just hired guns? They weren't fighting for a cause, or for their own survival. But yet we see over a hundred riding into a gunfight with zero survivors. After they noticed the first wave is taking on pretty heavy casualties, it would make sense if the rest of them said eff this and bailed. Instead they fought like samurai protecting their lord's life.
shareIt's a question that often gets asked of Seven Samurai, too - why do the bandits keep attacking when it's obvious they're getting pummelled. The film school answer is along the lines of 'they're trapped in their roles within a mythical narrative and have no choice but to continue', or somesuch.
I actually think it's less of a question in this movie, because the chaos kicks off so quickly and the battle is relatively short. For most of the hired guns they're already in the mix by the time it becomes clear they're overmatched, so retreating requires as much of a battle as continuing to attack. But I agree that there should have been some indication that some of Bogues men broke ranks and deserted - it wouldn't have harmed the action, and would have underscored the point about unity and resolve being the most powerful advantages for the townsfolk.
Exactly, you're giving up your life for a $50 gold piece??? This movie sucked beyond all recognition.
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