Review of The Big Trail (1930) by Bill T — 09 Feb 2011

Not a bad western, certainly nothing you've never seen before, although in 1930, it probably was never seen before. Said to be the first epic western of the talkie era, I believe it. I saw the 70 mm version (on a comp) and it certainly looked amazing and expansive.

It's fun to see John Wayne, here in his first leading role, although there was still some hardships up ahead (he was still playing bit parts 4 years later). Again, the story is nothing to write home about, all about pioneers going west, and the bad guys that follow, but maybe a worthwile look for wayne and the cinematography.