Ryan L Day of the Outlaw

In 1959, Andre De Toth released the film Day of the Outlaw. During this time, America is faced with the growing of the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the beginning of civil rights movements, and the release of the Barbie doll. These influences are seen in this film; however, women in particular are on the forefront. Throughout the film, women are viewed as objects or something in need of protection. They are often ignored, or not held in a high light. For example, Blaise Starrett opens the film with the intention of killing Hal Crane in order to get Helen. Later on the outlaws are lusting after, and forcing themselves upon, the women, while the entire town takes steps to protect them. Even the child Bobby orders his older sister to leave the store. Women are objectified, and when attempt to be in control of the situation, as Helen often tried, they were waved off. They are seen as something to be owned, and once owned must be protected. Starrett along with all the other men take sacrifices in order to protect the women, to such an extreme as though, women are incapable of doing so.

In understanding these aspects, it is important to recognize where the director is coming from, and why he views women as such. De Toth was married seven times, whilst having nineteen children. It seems as though De Toth was not one for believing in one woman. This film took place upon the release of the Barbie doll, and when women's rights were beginning to become a large issue. Obviously, there were opposing sides, and it is clear De Toth was not one who favored women's role as an individual.