True Grit (1969)

Introduction

True Grit (1969) is a classic American Western film directed by Henry Hathaway and based on the 1968 novel of the same name by Charles Portis. The film stars John Wayne in one of his most famous roles as Rooster Cogburn, a grizzled, one-eyed U.S. Marshal who helps a young girl avenge her father’s murder. This role earned Wayne his first and only Academy Award for Best Actor, cementing his status as a Hollywood legend. Co-starring Kim Darby as Mattie Ross and Glen Campbell as La Boeuf, True Grit is a film that has stood the test of time, blending adventure, action, and humor with classic Western themes of justice and retribution.

Plot Summary

The story follows 14-year-old Mattie Ross (Kim Darby), a strong-willed and intelligent girl who is determined to bring her father’s murderer, Tom Chaney (Jeff Corey), to justice. She hires Rooster Cogburn (John Wayne), a rugged, ageing U.S. Marshal known for his "true grit," and the two set off on a journey through dangerous Indian Territory. Along the way, they are joined by Texas Ranger La Boeuf (Glen Campbell), who has his own reasons for hunting Chaney.

As they track Chaney and his gang, led by the notorious outlaw Ned Pepper (Robert Duvall), they encounter numerous obstacles, including shootouts, ambushes, and betrayals. The trio's uneasy alliance is tested throughout the journey, but their pursuit of justice remains steadfast. The film climaxes in a thrilling standoff, where Rooster Cogburn famously charges the outlaws, reins in his teeth and guns blazing—a scene that has become one of the most iconic in Western cinema.

Performance & Characters

John Wayne as Rooster Cogburn

John Wayne delivers one of his most memorable performances as Rooster Cogburn, a role that won him the Academy Award for Best Actor. Unlike the typical Western heroes Wayne had portrayed in the past, Cogburn is rough, flawed, and deeply human. He is a hardened lawman with a fondness for whiskey, but underneath his gruff exterior, he possesses a sense of justice and loyalty. Wayne brings a mix of humour, toughness, and vulnerability to the character, making Cogburn both likeable and believable. His performance elevates the film beyond a standard Western and gives it emotional weight.

Kim Darby as Mattie Ross

Kim Darby plays Mattie Ross, the film’s driving force. While her performance is occasionally criticised for lacking depth, Darby convincingly portrays a determined and intelligent young woman who refuses to be dismissed. Her interactions with Wayne provide some of the film’s best moments, as Mattie’s sharp wit and unwavering resolve contrast beautifully with Cogburn’s grizzled cynicism.

Glen Campbell as La Boeuf

Country music star Glen Campbell was cast as La Boeuf, the Texas Ranger who joins Mattie and Rooster on their quest. While his acting is serviceable, it is generally considered the weakest of the three main performances. His portrayal lacks the depth and charisma needed to make La Boeuf truly compelling, and at times, his line delivery feels stiff. However, his character does provide an interesting contrast to Rooster and Mattie, representing a different kind of lawman.

Supporting Cast

Robert Duvall plays outlaw leader Ned Pepper with a charismatic yet menacing presence, proving once again why he would go on to become one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. Jeff Corey as Tom Chaney is suitably villainous, though his character is somewhat overshadowed by the more memorable Ned Pepper. Strother Martin delivers a memorable turn as Col. Stonehill, a horse trader who has a hilarious exchange with Mattie early in the film.

Direction & Cinematography

Henry Hathaway, a veteran of Hollywood Westerns, directs the film with a steady hand. His approach is traditional but effective, focusing on character interactions and sweeping landscapes rather than stylised action. The cinematography by Lucien Ballard captures the rugged beauty of the American West, particularly the Arkansas and Colorado landscapes, which serve as the film’s backdrop. The use of wide shots and natural lighting enhances the authenticity of the setting.

One of Hathaway’s strengths is his ability to balance humour with drama. While True Grit is filled with tense moments and intense action, it also has a lighthearted side, largely thanks to the witty dialogue and Wayne’s comedic timing. This balance keeps the film engaging and prevents it from becoming overly grim.

Themes & Legacy

At its core, True Grit is a film about justice, perseverance, and unlikely friendships. Mattie Ross represents determination and moral righteousness, proving that age and gender are no barriers to achieving one’s goals. Rooster Cogburn, despite his flaws, ultimately proves that he does indeed have “true grit,” not just in battle but in his loyalty to Mattie. The film also explores themes of revenge and redemption, showing the cost of vengeance and the bonds that can form between people from vastly different backgrounds.

The movie’s legacy was cemented not only by John Wayne’s Oscar-winning performance but also by its influence on the Western genre. It spawned a 1975 sequel, Rooster Cogburn, in which Wayne reprised his role alongside Katharine Hepburn. In 2010, the Coen brothers released a more faithful adaptation of the novel starring Jeff Bridges as Rooster Cogburn, Hailee Steinfeld as Mattie Ross, and Matt Damon as La Boeuf. While the 2010 version is often praised for being grittier and more faithful to Portis’s novel, the 1969 version remains beloved for its classic Hollywood charm and Wayne’s larger-than-life presence.

Final Verdict

True Grit (1969) is a quintessential Western that showcases John Wayne at his finest. While Kim Darby’s performance is divisive and Glen Campbell’s acting is underwhelming, the film remains an entertaining and well-crafted adventure. With its iconic characters, memorable dialogue, and thrilling action, it is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

While not a perfect film, True Grit endures as one of the great Westerns, thanks to its compelling story, beautiful cinematography, and an unforgettable performance by John Wayne.