Review of Red River (1948) by Ray H — 27 Nov 2009
After seeing this, John Ford reportedly said about John Wayne "Who knew the SOB could ACT?".
Compelling western made before Wayne totally slipped into formula in the 1960's. He plays Dunson, a Texas cattle man who leads a desperate cattle drive to Missouri to sell his beef. Along the way he becomes more and more paranoid and dictatorial until he finally orders two men hung that tried to leave the drive.
Montgomery Clift is good in a part that in later years would have gone to Patrick Wayne, and in comparison, Clift is phenomenal.
Joanne Dru though nearly steals the picture appearing in the final third as the tough, almost noirish Tess Millay. She shows up just about the same time John Ireland's character kind of disappears in the story, only to show up again at the very end.
Great supporting characters like Harry Carey Sr. and Jr., Noah Berry Jr., Paul Fix and Hank Worden abound. Lots to like about this one.
This review of Red River (1948) was written by Ray H on 27 Nov 2009.
Red River has generally received very positive reviews.
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