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As unsubtle as a brand on a cow's behind -- and about as enjoyable -- The Hi-Lo Country is a collection of movie cliches masquerading as a story about passion and jealousy. "Big Boy" is an apt name for the character played by Woody Harrelson, a cattle herder in post-World War II New Mexico who struts and openly cavorts with a powerful rival's wife, just begging someone to "keel" him. Patricia Arquette is the prize, also sought by Big Boy's best friend Pete (Billy Crudup), who provides the stultifying narration. There have been so many Westerns committed to film stock that one released at the late date of 1998 should strive to offer something clearly original. This film offers only an example to aspiring screenwriters of how not to write nuanced dialogue. Arquette actually delivers this clunker, gazing at the neon sign outside her motel room: "I hope this thing doesn't blink all night. I hate things that repeat on and on without changing." There's even a scene in which an anguished Crudup visits a fortune teller to ask, "Will all the people here be alive and prosperous this time next year?" "No," comes the response, bringing the "ominous" scene to a close. Harrelson carries out his trademark preening with such relish that by the end of the movie, viewers will be rooting for him to take two in the chest. Stephen Frears, who directed the great films The Grifters (1990) and Dangerous Liaisons (1988), should have stayed out of this particular country.