A group of naive boys find that life as desperadoes in the west is more serious that they understood when they embark on abortive careers in bushwhacking. Violence, betrayal, sombre colours and a Beckettsian whimsy mark this ironic western.

The classic rock band Bad Company named itself after this film.

Drew Dixon:
I resolve never to do a dishonest act, or take part in any thieving, robbing, or false undertaking. I will always keep to the straight and narrow, so help me God. It's still a sunny day.

Continuity: For the boys' meal at gunpoint with the farmer, the food is repeatedly described as being "sowbelly and turnip greens", which is a boiled dish, yet what they are eating is mashed potatoes and uncooked spinach leaves.