Review of Johnny Guitar (1954) by Joe L — 23 Sep 2009
Could also be called 'vicious bitches,' starring joan crawford in full drag queen caricature performance mode, and mercedes mccambridge who is every bit joan's equal. the conceit of the film is to turn western film stereotypes on their head by casting strong women in the power roles, and placing the men in subservient roles, existing only to please or be fought over by the women.
it's mesmerizing to watch the conviction with which the women sink their teeth into these parts - if you love the unbridled bitchiness of 'showgirls,' don't miss this film. 'johnny guitar' manages to achieve the same level of camp, but with surehanded direction and a surrealistic visual style that keeps it from falling into b-movie territory.
This review of Johnny Guitar (1954) was written by Joe L on 23 Sep 2009.
Johnny Guitar has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
