McCabe & Mrs. Miller 1971

John McCabe Arrives in Presbyterian Church

In the dusty boomtown of Presbyterian Church, Washington, in 1902, John McCabe makes a grand entrance. His enigmatic charm and audacious reputation precede him, captivating the lethargic residents of the town.

McCabe Establishes His Enterprises

McCabe quickly establishes a thriving brothel and gambling hall, partnering with the British madam Constance Miller. The businesses flourish, reflecting McCabe's charismatic influence over the townspeople.

The Romantic Involvement with Constance

As McCabe and Constance's businesses prosper, their romantic involvement deepens. However, it is underlined by a sense of transactionality that defines their relationship amidst the backdrop of the bustling boomtown.

Mining Company Attempts to Purchase McCabe's Enterprises

Representatives from the Harrison Shaughnessy Mining Company arrive in town, aiming to purchase McCabe's establishments and the nearby zinc mines. McCabe, however, staunchly declines their initial offer, igniting their fury.

Threatening Hired Guns Enter Town

Following McCabe's rejection, three hired guns—Butler, Breed, and Kid—come to town with an ominous mission to eliminate him. Their presence heightens the sense of doom that hangs over McCabe as he grapples with his fears.

McCabe's Intimidated Contemplation

Feeling intimidated by the threats against him, McCabe debates whether to sell his enterprises. Mocked by Butler's scornful remarks about his past, he contemplates a path forward as the danger closes in.

Attempt to Negotiate in Bearpaw

Desiring a peaceful resolution, McCabe travels to Bearpaw to seek out the mining company agents. Unfortunately, he discovers that they have mysteriously vanished, leaving him with growing uncertainty.

Consultation with Lawyer Clement Samuels

Returning to Presbyterian Church, McCabe consults with Clement Samuels, a lawyer and aspiring politician. Samuels advises him to stand his ground against the mining company, encouraging McCabe to fight back.

Confrontation in the Chapel

In a moment of introspection, McCabe seeks refuge in the chapel but is confronted by the pastor, who defiantly holds a shotgun. The confrontation escalates, culminating in the pastor's tragic death at the hands of Butler.

Chapel Fire Erupts

Following the pastor's death, chaos ensues as a lantern shatters, igniting a fire that engulfs the chapel. The townsfolk scramble to extinguish the flames, showcasing their efforts to protect their community from destruction.

McCabe's Vengeful Ambush

Amidst the chaos, McCabe takes matters into his own hands by ambushing hired guns Breed and Kid. Although he succeeds in eliminating them, he suffers a grievous injury during the fight, impacting his fate.

The Fatal Showdown

As the townspeople focus on battling the flames, Butler targets McCabe with a hunting rifle. In a desperate last move, McCabe retrieves a derringer and manages to kill Butler before succumbing to his own injuries.

McCabe's Lonely Demise

While the townspeople celebrate their victory over the fire, McCabe lies dying alone in the cold. The contrast between the community's triumph and his tragic fate underscores the solitary nature of his final moments.