Movie Guide: The Golden Years - 1969 – True Grit

This time, in homage to one of the great figures of American westerns and after this already impressive list of films from 1969, we’re going to focus on a Western. There is even a future remake that was made, which we will discuss in a later installment. But focusing on today’s, its name is «True Grit» and it is by none other than the great Henry Hathaway.

A fantastic and very entertaining Western by Hathaway that finally earned the great John Wayne his only Oscar, as he plays the tough and disagreeable Rooster Cogburn, a character who, in all his roughness, offers us an unforgettable portrayal. Do you like the suggestion? ¿Yes? Then let’s break it down and dive into the surrounding content.

Plot:

Starting with this «True Grit» (1969), directed by Henry Hathaway, it can be classified as a classic piece of western cinema that not only entertains but leaves a profound mark on the viewer.

The movie tells the story of Mattie Ross, a young girl determined to avenge her father’s murder, for which she hires Rooster Cogburn, a seasoned and somewhat unruly marshal played by the legendary John Wayne. Their joint mission, along with a Texas Ranger, takes them on a journey filled with danger, confrontations, and life lessons in the wildlands of the West.

What truly elevates «True Grit» to the level of a masterpiece is the performance of John Wayne, who brought to life one of the most memorable characters of his career, Rooster Cogburn. This role earned him his only Oscar, turning the tough yet endearing marshal into an iconic figure in cinema. Wayne perfectly embodies the courage and toughness of a man who, despite his flaws, manages to inspire a strange form of admiration and respect.

Therefore, Hathaway creates an atmosphere as entertaining as it is amusing, blending moments of action with a unique chemistry between characters. The film captures the spirit of the Old West with great authenticity, but it’s the combination of adventure, humor, and emotion that makes «True Grit» an unforgettable western.

General Information:

«True Grit» (1969) is a key work within the western genre, which stood out not only for its solid storytelling but also for its commercial success with a box office gross of $31.10M, reflecting the strong reception it received from audiences. Produced in the United States by Paramount Pictures, the film was released during one of the western genre’s last great moments.

The film, with a rating of 7.1, holds a prominent place in Filmaffinity’s «Top Western, » ranked as the 80th best western in history, which is an indicator of its significance in cinema history. This production helped cement John Wayne as a legend of the silver screen toward the end of his career, earning his only Oscar for his portrayal of the iconic character Rooster Cogburn. Through its focus on both action and human values, «True Grit» has left an indelible mark, become an essential reference when discussing the best westerns of all time.

Direction:

Henry Hathaway was a renowned American director known for his prolific career in Hollywood and his versatility in tackling different cinematic genres. Born in 1898, Hathaway specialized mainly in adventure and western films, establishing himself as one of the great directors of the latter genre during the golden age of cinema. His style was characterized by a sober and realistic approach, allowing him to portray powerful human stories set in tough, often inhospitable landscapes.

In «True Grit» (1969), Hathaway demonstrates a complete mastery of the western genre by combining solid directing with high production values. His ability to create suspense, tension, and excitement in action scenes complements a well-balanced script that skillfully combines humor and emotion. For his excellent work on «True Grit, » Hathaway won the appreciation of critics and the affection of the public, making this film a standout in his career.

In «True Grit» (1969), Hathaway demonstrates absolute mastery of the classic western, skillfully combining genre conventions with a plot that delves into human relationships. Although the film contains all the typical elements of a western—open landscapes, gunfights, justice on the edge of the law—Hathaway added a more emotional and comedic dimension, especially through the character of Rooster Cogburn, played by John Wayne. This ability to balance action and emotion is one reason why «True Grit» is considered one of the standout films in his filmography.

Although Hathaway had already directed numerous westerns before this film, «True Grit» is arguably his most celebrated and successful work in the genre. Here, he not only takes advantage of John Wayne ‘s charisma and experience but also surrounds himself with a well-chosen cast that strengthens the narrative. His skill in directing actors and telling stories with fluidity enabled Wayne to deliver one of his finest performances, earning him his first and only Oscar.

Hathaway infuses «True Grit» with a sense of duty and justice in a setting that seems to offer nothing but desolation and violence. Under his direction, the film shines not only as a great story of vengeance and justice in the Old West but also as a layered narrative where characters evolve and grow throughout the journey.

Praise for the Direction

The direction of Henry Hathaway was also praised. Critics highlighted his ability to maintain tension in the narrative, developing both action moments and character relationships with great skill. Hathaway effectively used the Western landscapes, filling the screen with stunning imagery and creating an atmosphere that, while familiar to the genre, had renewed appeal. His handling of the characters was another strong point, especially in the relationship between Rooster Cogburn and Mattie Ross, played by Kim Darby, who's generational and gender dynamics were seen as one of the film’s narrative strengths.

Main Performers:

John Wayne, the undeniable protagonist of «True Grit» (1969), delivers one of the most memorable performances of his extensive career in this film. Playing Rooster Cogburn, a gruff, hard-drinking U.S. Marshal with questionable methods, Wayne showcases a unique talent for infusing humanity and charisma into a character that could easily have become a stereotypical western hero. This performance earned him the only Oscar of his career, cementing his status as one of the most iconic actors in American cinema.

In «True Grit«, Wayne shares the screen with Glen Campbell, who plays La Boeuf, a Texas Ranger who joins Cogburn and Mattie Ross on their quest for justice. Although Campbell was better known for his music career at the time, his performance was convincing and added an interesting dynamic to the main trio of characters. His on-screen relationship with Wayne offers moments of both tension and camaraderie, which contributes to the emotional development of the story.

However, it is Kim Darby who brings a special spark to the film, portraying Mattie Ross, a young woman determined to avenge her father’s death. Despite being the least experienced in the cast, Darby surprises with a mature and powerful performance, holding her own alongside the legend that is Wayne. Her character is intelligent, brave, and persistent, perfectly contrasting with Cogburn’s rough demeanor. The chemistry between the two actors is essential to the film’s success, offering some of the most memorable scenes where Mattie constantly challenges the societal expectations of what a young woman should be able to do.

Critique of John Wayne’s Performance

One of the most celebrated aspects was the performance of John Wayne, who, after decades of playing tough men of the West, finally won his only Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of Rooster Cogburn. Critics were delighted with the charisma and authenticity Wayne brought to his role, highlighting how he managed to humanize a character who, despite his gruffness, also displayed a vulnerable and empathetic side. The role of Cogburn, a marshal with a mix of fierceness and tenderness, was seen as one of the pinnacles of Wayne’s acting career. For many critics, his performance was not only convincing but also deeply moving, helping to revitalize his image at a time when the western genre was beginning to lose popularity.

Kim Darby: A Young Woman Empowered for Her Time

Kim Darby, born on July 8, 1947, in Los Angeles, is an American actress whose career began in the late 1960s, gaining recognition for her roles in various film and television productions. Although Darby appeared in a variety of roles throughout her career, it was her performance in True Grit (1969) that became the most iconic role of her career.

Her role in True Grit remains the most memorable of her career, and despite mixed reviews, she earned a place in classic cinema through her portrayal of Mattie Ross.

Career Before True Grit

Before her stardom in True Grit, Kim Darby had already worked on several television productions. Her first notable role was in the series «Dr. Kildare» in 1963. Later, she participated in other projects such as «Bonanza» and «Star Trek», gaining notoriety within the television industry. However, despite her multiple appearances, she had not yet achieved a role that would consolidate her in cinema. Darby worked on the big screen before starring in True Grit.

In her personal life, Kim Darby went through four marriages, one of them with the famous James Stacy, who had an outstanding television career. Although they both worked in cinema and television, they did not work on the same project together. Over the years, Darby maintained a relatively private life, focusing on her acting career and a few teaching ventures.

Legacy of Mattie Ross in True Grit

Although her career did not reach the same heights as Wayne’s, her role as Mattie Ross is remembered as an iconic character in the history of western cinema. Kim Darby managed to create a believable and inspiring character, showing that even in a genre dominated by men, a young woman could steal the show. Her portrayal inspired many women to challenge gender stereotypes, both in cinema and in real life. This character was considered a precursor to the image of empowered women in cinema.

Supporting Cast:

In addition to Wayne, Campbell, and Darby, the film features a solid supporting cast. Jeff Corey, an experienced character actor, plays the villain Tom Chaney, the man they are pursuing, bringing a menacing and convincing presence. Jeremy Slate also portrays Emmett Quincy, another of the outlaws they encounter along the adventure. Both actors help to heighten the dramatic tension of the film, offering performances that perfectly complement the main storyline.

Overall, the cast of «True Grit» is filled with performances that fit the tone of the Western perfectly, but it’s Wayne’s portrayal, with his toughness and charm, that remains the heart of the film. The work of his co-stars, especially Darby and Campbell, creates an exciting and nuanced story.

Author and Screenwriters:

«True Grit» (1969) is celebrated not only for its performances and direction but also for the story it’s based on and the screenplay that adapts it. Behind this powerful narrative are two key figures: Charles Portis, author of the original novel, and Marguerite Roberts, responsible for its cinematic adaptation.

Charles Portis, the creator of the novel «True Grit» (1968)

Charles Portis was an American writer best known for his works of fiction with a satirical touch and Southern realism. Born in Arkansas in 1933, Portis worked as a journalist before dedicating himself fully to writing novels. Although he wrote several notable works, it was his novel True Grit that propelled him to success. Published in 1968, «True Grit» tells the story of Mattie Ross, a 14-year-old seeking justice for her father’s death with the help of the rough and drunken marshal Rooster Cogburn.

What sets Portis’s work apart from other Westerns is its distinctive tone, blending humor, grit, and a deep reflection on justice, revenge, and human character. True Grit is written from the perspective of an adult Mattie, giving it a reflective and nostalgic air. Over the years, the novel has been acclaimed for its straightforward prose and ability to capture the harshness of life in the Old West without romanticizing it.

Portis brought to life memorable characters like Rooster Cogburn, an imperfect man admired for his bravery and determination, and Mattie Ross, whose resilience and strength have inspired generations of readers. His austere yet powerful writing style made his work perfect for the silver screen.

Marguerite Roberts, the Screenwriter

Marguerite Roberts adapted Portis’s novel for the big screen. Born in 1905, Roberts was one of the few successful female screenwriters in Hollywood’s golden age. Throughout her career, she worked across various genres, though her contribution to the Western genre with «True Grit» remains her most notable achievement.

Roberts was known as a solid and efficient screenwriter, able to work under pressure and capture the essence of stories in her scripts. With «True Grit,» she skillfully captured Portis’s novel’s tone, balancing the gravity of the quest for justice with moments of humor and camaraderie among the characters. Her adaptation remained true to the original work while bringing it to life on the big screen with memorable dialogue and a lively cinematic rhythm.

However, Roberts’s career was not without obstacles. During the 1950s, she was blacklisted in Hollywood for refusing to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee. This interrupted her career for several years until she was reinstated in the industry. Her work on «True Grit» was one of her most notable projects following her return, proving that her talent remained intact.

The Collaboration Between Portis’s Novel and Roberts’s Screenplay

The collaboration between Portis and Roberts brought out the essence of True Grit as a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. While Portis created the rich story world, Roberts translated it into an accessible and impactful screenplay, skillfully crafting lines and scenes that resonated with audiences.

Composition:

The soundtrack of «True Grit» (1969) plays a fundamental role in creating the epic and exciting atmosphere that characterizes the film. New York composer Elmer Bernstein was responsible for bringing this work to musical life, cementing his reputation as one of the most prominent musicians in the film industry. Bernstein, known for his ability to combine emotion and grandeur, created a score that perfectly captures the spirit of the classic western, enhancing the adventure, drama, and depth of the characters.

Accompanied by orchestrators Jack Hayes and Leo Shuken, Bernstein crafted vibrant music that greatly contributes to the viewer’s immersion into the landscapes and tensions of the film. Hayes and Shuken, both veteran figures in the industry, contributed their experience to enrich and structure Bernstein’s score, achieving a perfect symbiosis between the music and on-screen action.

The contribution of Bernstein and his team was so outstanding that the soundtrack was nominated for both the Oscar and the Golden Globe in the Best Original Song category. Although they did not win, this nomination recognized the musical quality of «True Grit» and its importance in the film’s global success. The main melody, with its grand and evocative style, is still remembered as one of the great themes of western cinema, masterfully reflecting courage, adventure, and justice in the iconic context of the Wild West.

The soundtrack of True Grit (1969), composed by Elmer Bernstein, is a masterpiece that significantly contributes to the film’s atmosphere, essential to convey the epic and emotional tone of the classic western. Bernstein, widely recognized for his work in cinema, was the creator of iconic soundtracks such as The Magnificent Seven (1960) and The Ten Commandments (1956). In True Grit, Bernstein channels his experience and talent to create a score that reflects both the spirit of adventure and the complexities of the characters.

Musical Structure and Themes

The music of True Grit is imbued with a heroic yet melancholic sentiment, capturing the ruggedness and beauty of the Wild West. The main theme is robust, with brass and strings evoking the vastness of the landscapes and the resilient nature of the protagonists. The softer passages are reserved for introspective moments, especially regarding the character Rooster Cogburn (played by John Wayne), whose rough but deeply human personality is perfectly reflected in the music.

Nominations and Legacy

The quality of the soundtrack was recognized at the time with nominations for both the Oscar and the Golden Globe in the Best Original Song category. Although it ultimately did not win, this nomination highlighted the importance of the music in the film’s success and reception. The main song, with its unforgettable and powerful melody, not only framed the narrative but also became etched in the public’s memory, becoming one of the great compositions of the western genre.

Elmer Bernstein achieved a soundtrack that does not merely serve as accompaniment but becomes an additional character in the story. The music captures the essence of the film: bravery, justice, and honor in a tough and relentless world. The score, with its mix of bravado and sensitivity, amplifies the most important moments of the film and adds an extra layer of emotion and resonance.

In short, the soundtrack of True Grit is a key piece of the film, not only for its technical quality and beauty but also because it reinforces the film’s central themes: the quest for justice, courage in the face of adversity, and the passage of time. Elmer Bernstein, with his score, left an indelible mark on the western and the history of cinema.

Soundtrack and Technical Aspects

The soundtrack by Elmer Bernstein was equally well received, effectively underscoring moments of tension and emotion in the film. Critics noted how the music perfectly complemented the on-screen action and added an emotional layer that enhanced the performances, especially that of Wayne. Nominated for both the Oscar and the Golden Globe for his contribution, Bernstein was praised for composing one of the best western scores of the time.

Regarding technical aspects, critics also appreciated the cinematography and use of natural locations, which helped establish a palpable sense of the harsh and hostile Western environment. The vast, open landscapes were seen as the perfect backdrop for the story of revenge and redemption that unfolded.

As a tribute and as a gift, here is a link to two fragments of his compositions for this film: Opening Titles and a Long Suite. Enjoy them.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rM4d-xqR6ocUzNc-J-OuW5_63UnriI3C/view?usp=drive_link

Critical Reception:

The critical reception of True Grit (1969) was generally very positive, establishing it as one of the most celebrated westerns of the era and one of John Wayne’s most memorable films. Directed by Henry Hathaway and starring Wayne in his iconic role as Rooster Cogburn, the film stood out for its blend of adventure, action, and endearing characters, receiving praise for both its screenplay and the performances of its cast.

Despite its great success, some reviews highlighted certain weaknesses. Some critics felt that the character of Mattie Ross, played by Kim Darby, was less convincing compared to Wayne’s powerful portrayal. Although the relationship between the two characters was praised, some felt that Darby’s performance did not meet the level of the rest of the cast, or that the script did not fully tap into her potential.

Moreover, while the film was seen as a successful update of the western genre, some contemporary critics noted that it adhered to certain tropes of the genre that were beginning to feel somewhat worn out by the late 60s. However, these opinions were in the minority compared to the overwhelming acclaim the film received overall.

Impact and Legacy

True Grit was a critical and commercial success. In addition to earning John Wayne his well-deserved Oscar, the film resonated greatly with audiences, revitalizing interest in the genre at a time when westerns were being overshadowed by more modern and avant-garde cinematic genres. Over the years, the film has maintained its prestige, and many critics and film enthusiasts regard it as one of the best in the genre.

In summary, the critical reception of True Grit was mostly positive, with praise focused on John Wayne’s performance, Henry Hathaway’s direction, and Elmer Bernstein’s soundtrack. Despite some minor critiques, the film has remained in collective memory as one of the greats in western cinema, with its impact still felt today as one of the most representative works of classic American cinema.

Synopsis:

True Grit (1969), directed by Henry Hathaway, is a classic western that tells the story of Mattie Ross, a 14-year-old determined to avenge her father’s murder. Determined to find justice, she hires U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn, a tough, aging man with a peculiar sense of duty, known for his hard-nosed law enforcement. Despite their differences, Mattie joins Rooster in the search for the killer, Tom Chaney, who has fled into Indian territory. Joining them on their journey is LaBoeuf, a stubborn Texas Ranger also tracking Chaney for another crime.

Together, these three form an unlikely team, facing dangers along their journey, encountering both violence and camaraderie in their pursuit of justice. As they venture into hostile terrain, Mattie’s bravery and determination are revealed, contrasting with Rooster’s toughness and cunning, creating a unique relationship marked by mutual respect.

The film is a mix of action, humor, and drama, centering on themes of vengeance, redemption, and honor. John Wayne delivers a memorable performance that earned him the Oscar for Best Actor in his role as Rooster Cogburn, while Kim Darby shines in her portrayal of the brave Mattie Ross. True Grit is an exciting story of the pursuit of justice in a setting where the law is often as tough as the men who enforce it.