Continue with Google
>
The Shootist Reviews
An adequate end to John Wayne's storied film career.
Ok this is not your typical john wayne western Theres no saloon comedic fights or dated humour Theres some serious themes and character development that will engage you Iits not a movie for the younger generations But for us more mature viewers an ageing gun slinger facing his swansong held my interest This is probably john wayne best acting performance and one wonders what he could have achieved critically had he not been so stereotyped in his long career
Moving elegy to John Wayne, in his last movie, Fine supporting cast headed by Lauren Bacall, James Stewart, and Ron Howard, Nice turn of the century production design showing that Wayne's dying gunfighter no longer fits in the modern world, Over a period of 8 days, Wayne''s gunfighter plans to go out on his terms, with dignity and reknown intact. Knowing that Wayne was ill at the time of filming, and this was his swan song, amplifies the passing of his legend and of old school Hollywood Westerns,
Not only a fitting tribute to the Duke, John Wayne, in his final movie, it is also a tribute to two of the greatest actors of a generation, Lauren Bacall and Jimmy Stewart. Also notable, with great enjoyment, is the appearance of some great character actors of the small screen, including Ron Howard (Happy Days), Richard Boone (Have Gun Will Travel), Harry Morgan (M*A*S*H), and Scatman Crothers (Chico and the Man).
Corny, predictable, and unnecessary. Watching this movie without particular reverence for the big name actors and it’s like a high school play made into a movie. Hollywood being self-indulgent.
JB Books is an aging gunfighter dying of cancer. Deciding against experiencing severe pain later, he decides to go out shooting. The swan song of John Wayne, it's a tribute to his career that was full of westerns. Despite not having much you haven't seen if you've seen a lot of westerns, the film is charming and memorable. Wayne gives a subdued and heartfelt performance. Recommended
You almost can't seperate the character from the legend of the actor that gives his last ride. That being said even if you don't know anything about Wayne or that this was his last film it's got such multi faceted layers of symbolism and commentary it's hard not be drawn in and engaged the entire way. From a historical setting of the turn of the century, the dying of the old ways, new inventions add a layer to something already filled with tons of commentary on death and finding ones place in society for yourself and others. On top of that for fans of the genre, the fact that this is a golden era star giving his his last performance in a New Hollywood picture is poetic in itself on top of mirroring Wayne's real life only a short time later. Fundamentally speaking what carries this is this all this adds such tremendous weight for a western in a short period of time and provides a perfect heavy pacing and excellent cinematography and acting. Everyone is really good but it's Wayne who really makes it something special especially for fans who know this is last ride. The only minor complaints are the editing is really good but could be tighter with it feeling like stuff just happens at points but do add character and commentary. It would've been nice to maybe see Wayne interact with his old foes more but it still works well. The music is also really good but it's not used that much because of how serious the tone is and rightfully so but it may have helped to use it a bit more. This isn't the type of Western that you would think it would be and is more so a character study drama than anything else with ahrdly any action save for the end. It's a great way for The Duke to go out. Everyone should give this a shot. All Time Classic.
A deep cut In the John Wayne filmography with a suddle but effect performance, aging and mortality are present and well represented in a simple effect, western masterpiece. Also incredible cast.
Wow! One of the greatest movies I've ever seen! I had no idea it was Wayne's last film, although it wasn't known it would be his last, when it was made. The reason I was shocked to learn it was his last film was because he was SO handsome and gorgeous in this movie! So I thought, I wonder when he made this movie? Maybe 15-20 years before he passed? Wow! He sure looks good! Then when I read it was his last, I was even more blown away by the whole movie! Not only his iconic looks, but his acting!! It's marvelous! I mean, he's iconic for a reason! His acting was iconic! But again, not knowing his age as I was watching this film, I was stricken so many things, such as… how deeply and how much he could say with just his eyes, and in a fleeting second! Incredible! There is SO much I could say about this film, but honestly, I feel speechless. There's a great article that says it best about all John Wayne was in this movie and his incredible talents. It's called something like… "John Wayne's Claustrophobic.." Great article. As for the movie…. Just watch it. You won't be sorry. Especially if you are a woman. And a Wayne fan. But you'll love it even if you are not.
This classic Western was great. John Wayne, Ron Howard, Lauren Bacall, James Stewart, and the rest of the cast did a great job in this movie. The plot of the movie was entertaining and dramatic. It's about doing something good when you don't much time to live and settling unfinished business. If you haven't seen this classic movie yet, check it out sometime. It's worth watching.
JB Books is one of the last great gunfighters of the old West After being diagnosed with a cancerous disease he decides to go out with any last bit of dignity and less pain The 1970s was dominated by so many Westerners and the late John Wayne is one of the old classic Hollywood figures This was officially the actor's last role before his passing presented by Dino DiLaurentis and directed by Don Siegel Books comes to Nevada at the turn of the century Renting a room from widowed Bond Rogers (Lauren Bacall) and her son Gillom (Ron Howard), Books is confronted by several people of questionable motives, including a man seeking to avenge his brother's death and a few who are looking to profit from Books' notoriety This man doesn't want a quiet, painful goodbye but something worth remembering This movie is less of your traditional shoot-em up, good guy vs bad guy and explosions More of a somber farewell to this late actor after an illustrious career Every person Books encounters they all have a different reaction to him being there and what it'll be after he's gone Lots of interacting is a majority of this films runtime but Wayne fills a lot of dimensions for this character Not everyone will like the way this could've played out but for longtime fans of this man and this genre it's a fitting tribute to them both
John Wayne's final film is quiet and powerful. Fitting swan song for his career. Great cast includes Lauren Bacall, James Stewart, Ron Howard, and John Carradine.
The Duke shines in his farewell address. Quotable and endearing, this movie hits all the right notes and is emotionally moving.
Not a huge John Wayne fan but I feel like he did a great job in this movie. Although I feel the story is a bit drawn out the ending brings it all together! One of my favorite John Wayne Movies
Fabulous ending to a fabulous career! As usual the snobs of Hollywood totally ignored this magnificent cast and film. This was undoubtedly John Wayne's most perfect performance! He was surrounded by a lovely and wonderful supporting cast. It wasn't as beautifully filmed as John Ford's films but Mr. Wayne's health had to be considered! The story and characters are what make this film great!
One of the worst for all involved.
This isn't a swan song; that wouldn't fit John Wayne. This is a balanced tribute to the classic Western genre, its influence, and its most celebrated star, while also a complete acceptance of the decline of each. Brings a level of self-reflection that is noticeably absent from the majority of Duke's films. (4/5)