Will Penny

When asked which of his films is his favorite, Charlton Heston always mentions this 1968 western that offers an authentic take on the iconic loner hero. Heston stars as 50-year-old drifter Will Penny, who gets a taste of family life when he allows a woman (Joan Hackett) and her young son to set up housekeeping with him during the winter. Their idyllic existence is threatened by a maniacal preacher (Donald Pleasence) and his sons (one of them played by Bruce Dern at his deranged best), who attack Will and leave him for dead. Look for Lee Majors as one of Will's friends. Sporting a pristine DVD transfer, this disc also boasts two fine bonus features: "The Cowboys of Will Penny," a round-up of the film's supporting cast, and "Remembering Will Penny," which warmly recalls the making of the film. Highly recommended. (K. Lee Benson)