A mysterious gunslinger who enters the contest not for the prize money, but to seek revenge against Herod for her father's death.

A former outlaw-turned-preacher named Cort who has renounced violence but is forced into the tournament by his former mentor, Herod.

A brash young shooter eager to prove himself to Herod, whom he believes is his father.

The story is set in the lawless town of , ruled by the ruthless and narcissistic John Herod (Gene Hackman). Herod organizes an annual quick-draw tournament where the only rule is that a challenge cannot be refused, and duels often end in death.