Johnny Gates' Goal: More Than Just a Win
Johnny Gates, the protagonist of the 1980 film The Long Riders, isn't defined by a single, easily stated goal. His ambition is multifaceted, deeply rooted in his family loyalty, his sense of justice, and his own personal demons. While the film depicts him participating in the notorious Dalton Gang robberies, his motivations run far deeper than simple greed. Understanding Johnny Gates' goal requires examining his character arc and the context of the era.
Family Loyalty: A Defining Force
One of Johnny Gates' primary goals is protecting his family, specifically his brothers. The Dalton Gang represents a misguided attempt at financial stability and a means to secure a better future for his family. He sees robbing trains as a necessary evil, a way to escape the poverty they face and provide for those he loves. This loyalty is tested throughout the film, showcasing his internal conflict between his desire for wealth and his moral compass.
Seeking Justice, Finding Violence
While driven by his desire for his family’s well-being, Johnny's actions also seem influenced by a sense of injustice toward the powerful and wealthy. He and his brothers perceive the system as rigged against them, favoring the privileged few. This feeling, though fueling his actions, leads him down a dangerous path, blurring the lines between right and wrong. His methods, violent and illegal, cast doubt on whether he truly achieves his desired justice.
Escaping Poverty, Embracing a Risky Path
The stark reality of poverty in the late 19th century significantly shapes Johnny Gates' aspirations. He seeks to escape the cycle of poverty that traps his family. His pursuit of wealth, though achieved through illegal means, is a direct attempt at self-improvement and a better future, a better life that's simply out of reach through honest work. This ambition, however, is ultimately self-destructive.
Internal Conflict: The Weight of His Actions
Johnny Gates' journey is marked by internal conflict. He wrestles with the moral implications of his violent actions. He’s driven by the desire to provide for his loved ones, but the violence he perpetrates weighs heavily on his conscience. This internal struggle highlights the complexity of his character, making him more than a simple outlaw. His "goal," if one can even call it that, is a complex mix of survival, family loyalty, and a flawed sense of justice.
The Ultimate Failure: A Tragic End
Ultimately, Johnny Gates fails to achieve his multifaceted goals. His attempt at wealth through robbery ends in tragedy, highlighting the futility of his chosen path. The film depicts a devastating failure, underscored by the loss of life and the devastating consequences of his actions. This tragic ending underscores the complex nature of his desires and the limitations of his chosen means to achieve them.
In conclusion, Johnny Gates' goal wasn't simply to accumulate wealth. It was a complex interplay of familial devotion, a desire for justice, and an attempt to escape the crushing weight of poverty. His story serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating the devastating consequences of pursuing even noble goals through violence and illegal means. The film leaves the audience questioning the nature of justice, the price of loyalty, and the elusive nature of a better life.
