Lonely Are the Brave

Directed by David Miller, 1962
PG; 107 minutes

“The performances are strong. [Walter] Matthau and Gena Rowlands are particularly memorable. But it is Douglas' film. He is a great screen actor, and exerts his presence and believability in the role of the man who wants to keep his soul free.” — George Perry, BBC.com

Ranch hand Jack Burns (Kirk Douglas) feels out of place in the modern world. Jack deliberately gets into a barroom fight to be imprisoned alongside his friend, Paul (Michael Kane), arrested for helping illegal immigrants. Jack tries to convince Paul to flee with him, but, as a family man, Paul has too much at stake. Jack escapes after a beating from a sadistic police deputy (George Kennedy) and heads for the hills. An extensive manhunt breaks out, led by sympathetic Sheriff Johnson (Walter Matthau).

The “My Favorite Films” series features tales of romance, humor, suspense, satire, and heroism with films since 1945. These films may hold special memories for you—no matter how many times you see them, they continue to draw you in once more. While many of these films are available through streaming, it's always more fun to see them in the theatre.

This November, join us as we ride through the wild, rugged terrain of the American West. Saddle up for a cinematic adventure that proves the West is wild, wonderful, and timeless—because in these films, the frontier never truly fades.

Make a day of it at the Modern and include extra time to visit the galleries. Enjoy lunch in Café Modern and then settle in for an afternoon screening, or plan for a coffee break afterwards with fellow film enthusiasts.

Screenings are at 2 pm most Wednesdays in the auditorium. Tickets are $5 (FREE for Modern members) and are available at the Museum’s admission desk or online here.