MovieChat Forums > Silverado (1985) Discussion > Puzzled by Jeff Goldblum's character

Puzzled by Jeff Goldblum's character

posted 18 years ago by jlharmon
47 replies | jump to latest

Does anyone know if there was something in the script that didn't make it onto the screen that explained what was up with Jeff Goldblum's character? I just watched the movie the other day (I might have seen it before ages ago), and his character just baffled me.

He comes to town, a gambler looking for a good game, and he seems to be a stranger to everyone. So - why did he sell out Jake and why was he helping the sheriff? People were getting killed left and right, and he didn't seem to be 'aligned' with either side. So why didn't he just keep out of it?

[–] greenbudgie 9 years ago

I didn't really see him as necessary to the film. Bit of luxury to have him involved. Too many characters in this film.

[–] dirtyoldhawg 8 years ago

'Slick', Goldblum's character, was a gambler who had worked a town with Cobb in the past.
Cobb had sent for Slick to run a game, and to split the profits of his winnings with Cobb. Probably to run the Gambling in the Midnight Star after Cobb Fired Kelly (who was skimming profits). Paden just happened to show up and take over before Slick could get into town. Also to act as eyes and ears within the Midnight Star and to otherwise be useful.

The scene with the Knife -- Slick was about to throw the knife (underhanded) but with enough force to cause injury or death to (in my opinion) Paden as Tyree was one of Cobb's men and a trusted subordinate.
Paden had proven un the past that he was not completely without conscience and therefore less trustworthy.

But make no mistake about it, Slick and Cobb were in it together.

A Mountain Lion does not concern himself with the opinion of sheep.