This is the film that turned John Wayne from an actor into John Wayne the on-screen force. Before 1948’s ‘Red River’, John Wayne was already a movie-star. ‘Stagecoach’ had seen to that. And he was an academy award nominee. ‘Sands of Iwo Jima’ had seen to that. But the persona that we know as “The Duke” had yet to develop on screen. This is a classic that you might have missed.
‘Red River’ changed everything for Wayne. Here he portrays Tom Dunson, a hardworking, no b.s. rancher who decides to lead his massive cattle herd on a long cattle drive. His ward Matt Garth (wonderfully played, in his first film, by Montgomery Clift) is his lead assistant. When Clift feels Wayne is being dictatorial and oppressive he takes the herd away from Wayne and leads the drive himself. Wayne vows vengeance and pursues Clift and his herd along the Chisum trail. This strong-willed, take no prisoners Wayne is the persona that follows him to this day.
This film is often called 'The Mutiny on the Bounty' set in the American West. The comparison is accurate, but incomplete. Except for the climactic ending the stories are very similar. But I find ‘Red River’ to be more about opposites than rebellion. Older & grizzled John Wayne vs. young & attractive Montgomery Clift. Take no prisoners employee management vs. an inclusive management style. Follow orders vs. question authority. Risk vs. reward. Questions that still intrigue us today.
Veteran director Howard Hawks does a fantastic job. He takes the Oscar nominated script by Borden Chase and creates amazing images and powerful people. The characters are deep and real, the photography is spellbinding and the acting he gets from Wayne and the cast are first-rate. Few critics consider John Wayne to be much of an actor, but he sure does a fantastic job in this movie. Clift, in his debut, is compelling as the heir apparent that rebels against the very man who saved him. Walter Brennan, Noah Berry, Jr. and John Ireland are also featured. The score, by Dimitri Tiomkin, adds a wonderful, western feel. Christian Nyby would also receive a well-deserved Oscar nomination for cinematography.
Even if you are not a big fan of Wayne nor westerns, ‘Red River’ is well worth a viewing.
Side notes: The release of this movie was held up by litigation for two years. Howard Hughes sued saying this film copied his movie ‘The Outlaw’. The lawsuit resulted in different editions of this movie being released. Also, after seeing the film John Ford, who worked with Wayne on many outstanding films, was quoted as saying “I never knew the son of a bitch could act”. Finally, this movie is rated #5 all-time by AFI in the Westerns category.
I love John Wayne. I don't think he gets enough credit for his work. Thank you for this review.
Rock on John Wayne!