Randolph Scott had top billing, but Richard Boone was the star
Richard Boone's character Wick Campbell was far more entertaining to watch even being the villain compared to the topliner Randolph Scott. Boone had more range and passion. I almost dreaded him getting his comeuppance.
Randolph Scott was just meh and flat like old Coca-Cola. Sure, he was the good guy, but that wasn't enough. I wasn't really pulling for him. Boone's character was evil, no doubt, but there were moments in which he was endearing and showed dimension, such as the rare moments he shows enthusiasm and sweetness to Maria in between his controlling outbursts. He was so conflicted which makes his character a treat to watch.
I watched another Scott/Boone movie recently -- The Tall T. Scott was better in that one, but Boone stole it from him there too.