Review of True Grit

Introduction

If there is one character that has become synonymous with John Wayne, then it`s the cantankerous boozing one-eyed U.S. Marshal Reuben J. "Rooster" Cogburn. The character appeared in two films, the eponymous 1975 sequel with Katherine Hepburn was less successful and more an attempt to cash in on the character, but the 1969 film True Grit was met with critical acclaim and resulted in John Wayne`s sole Academy Award as Best Actor.

When employee Tom Chaney murders rancher Frank Ross, his daughter Mattie travels to collect the body and see justice done. But the murderer has fled into Indian Territory and joined up with a ruthless band of outlaws led by Lucky Ned Pepper. The local law has no jurisdiction in the territory and Mattie turns to the U.S. Marshals for help, the most ruthless and ornery being Rooster Cogburn. Mattie agrees to pay him $100 for the capture of Chaney on the condition that she accompanies the Marshal. Rooster has enough trouble reconciling his desire for the money with his belief that he works better alone, when a Texas Ranger called La Boeuf who is also hunting Chaney learns of the expedition and decides to tag along. With Rooster finding solace in the bottle, La Boeuf boasting of his Texas born prowess and Mattie wielding the threat of her Lawyer J. Noble Daggett like a weapon, these three prove more dangerous to each other than the bad guys.

Video

The picture is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. There is some minor grain but the most noticeable of any flaw would be the print damage. Though there were two moments of minor pixellation. The film itself is in fairly good condition, with the image coming across clear and sharp, with only the occasional scene seeming soft. In contrast to most Westerns, this film is set in the mountains during winter and the clothes and the settings reflect that, with colours a little muted and dull. That said, the rugged landscapes captured here are truly phenomenal and look absolutely stunning.

Audio

As usual a back catalogue disc with a smattering of DD 2.0 mono tracks in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. 24, count them 24 subtitle tracks make this a truly uplifting symbol of linguistic unity. The sound itself is as mundane as you could imagine. The dialogue is always clear and Elmer Bernstein provides a memorable and uplifting Western theme. It`s a bit of a shame really, as True Grit is one of those high profile titles that could do with a little refreshing for a DVD release, and a surround track wouldn`t have gone amiss.

Features

A trailer. Again disappointing.

Conclusion

Picture the scene, on one side of a valley are four ruthless outlaws, on the other a solitary U.S. Marshal on his faithful horse. Only one side will survive this showdown. Taking the reins in his teeth, the Marshal spurs his steed forward, pistol in one hand, rifle in the other with all guns blazing. The outlaws also charge forward, intent on killing the Marshal. This is one of those moments that you will tell your grandkids about, even if it is only a movie.

True Grit is unmitigated fun from beginning to end. John Wayne creates his most memorable character as the boozing blustering Marshal Rooster Cogburn. He delivers every line with gusto and relish, but what really makes the film work is the wonderful chemistry between the Marshal and Mattie Ross as played by Kim Darby. In comparison to the cantankerous Cogburn, she is prim and proper, even puritanical, but absolutely determined to achieve her goals and will brook no opposition from any quarter. It`s also interesting to see early appearances from Robert Duvall and Dennis Hopper.

True Grit is one of those films that certainly is timeless, but also has a kind of broad-spectrum appeal that so many modern films lack. Yes, True Grit is a Western, but there is also gentle comedy, witty dialogue and excitement that will appeal to a large demographic. The characters are well written and rounded, but brought to life with performances that light up the screen. It`s also one of those films that just get better with repeat viewing.

This particular disc from Paramount is unimpressive. What should be a flagship back catalogue title is released with little fanfare and no frills whatsoever. As one of John Wayne`s most prominent performances, it certainly deserves a special edition treatment. The picture, while adequate could certainly be better and the sound could easily be improved on. The complete lack of extras is lamentable, but at least this film is available on DVD. One of John Wayne`s best.