Review of Johnny Guitar (1954) by Jarett B — 21 Jan 2010
Controversial Western for its groundbreaking look at gender identities and critique of social conservatism - famously praised by Truffaut and derided by its lead actress Joan Crawford. It all seems fairly surreal to the contemporary eye - expressionist colours, a meticulously arranged supporting cast of townsfolk led by a small and vicious woman running from repressed lusts, an inn in the middle of nowhere and Johnny Guitars supremely anticlimatic (but profoundly presented) signature line 'You.
Wanna know what a man really needs? Just a smoke and a cup of coffee...' Joan Crawford is fierce in the lead role and the shrinking of expected protagonist Mr J. Guitar into her long shadow is a pleasing surprise.
This review of Johnny Guitar (1954) was written by Jarett B on 21 Jan 2010.
Johnny Guitar has generally received very positive reviews.
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