I've been neglecting "Oldie Goldies" lately and for that I must apologize. Have no fear though, we're back this week with the throwback John Ford Western "Stagecoach". This film felt a bit too frivolous in certain places, but the superb direction more than makes up for any minor shortcomings in the writing. In particular there's a shootout scene towards the end that is simply spectacular. The film won 2 Oscars (Best Supporting Actor and Best Music) in addition to its other well-deserved nominations for Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Director and most importantly, Best Picture.
Classic Quote
"Well, I guess you can't break out of prison and into society in the same week."
Classic Scene
"Introducing Ringo"
Classic Characters
Ringo Kid (John Wayne)
Doc Boone (Thomas Mitchell)
Classic Music
Did you know?
In June 2008, the American Film Institute revealed its "Ten Top Ten"—the best ten films in ten "classic" American film genres—after polling over 1,500 people from the creative community. Stagecoach was acknowledged as the ninth best film in the western genre.
It's been interesting to note how many bloggers have been writing about Stagecoach lately. It's one of my favorite westerns (if not films in general), so it's always great to see. I also think it's so influential on the genre and John Wayne's career. The intro scene to his character was so key to the movie and his career.
It's been interesting to note how many bloggers have been writing about Stagecoach lately. It's one of my favorite westerns (if not films in general), so it's always great to see. I also think it's so influential on the genre and John Wayne's career. The intro scene to his character was so key to the movie and his career.
ReplyDeleteIt's definitely up there as one of the best Westerns. John Wayne is so young in this but you can already tell he has movie star potential.
DeleteJust saw this one recently myself. Loved it. Looking forward to digging deeper into Ford's filmography.
ReplyDeleteJohn Ford definitely has a robust filmography to dig into. I'm particularly fond of The Grapes of Wrath.
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