I don't get why Charles Bronson got so much camera time in the movie. Every time the camera wasn't on Cooper or Lancaster they were on Bronson doing some crappy interpretation of a harmonica or something else. I like Charles Bronson as an actor when he's in a leading role especially during the later 1960s on but he was no one in 1954 and feel he didn't deserve so much air time in Vera Cruz.
I watched Riding Shotgun (1954) last night with Randolph Scott and Charles Bronson again was one of the main characters but stood out as lacking when compared against the other actors.

How much screen time does he have?
Not a huge amount. His big moments come when he attacks a Mexican woman and when he and Ernest Borgnine are sent to threaten some kids. The role probably didn't live in his memory.

No. You might as well buy a photograph of Charles Bronson.
"facts are stupid things" - Ronald Reagan

Sadly, Mr. Bronson has passed, and probably wouldn't much appreciate the gift.
What I had in mind was boxing the compass.

Agreed.
Can you fly this plane?
Surely you can't be serious.
I am serious,and don't call me Shirley

I recommend Jubal to you. It's a western from the next year in which Charles has a pretty nice supporting role.
I'm here, Mr. Man, I can not tell no lie and I'll be right here 'till the day I die

It is worth buying this for Charles Bronson in my opinion. He has a character supporting role but he does have important screen time in it. Of course there are other great stars in it too but if you want it just for Charles Bronson you won't be disappointed.

Not just for Charlie. Its an early character role.
Good film, though.
Carpe Noctem