Easy to see how opinions over this decidedly "other" Anti-Western are divided. I too found the buildup pretty uninviting but the photography and soundtrack by Leonard Cohen magnificent. And what a wonderful climax in the snow that is.
I'm usually having problems with the films by Robert Altman, though. This is not for all - you have to see which party you belong to.

Not only is it rather decidedly not "long and boring," it is, in fact, one of the greatest, most beautiful and haunting and enthralling films ever made.

another masterpiece by the great robert altman