Review of The Last Hurrah (1958) by Cody F — 07 Jan 2009

A late film from Ford that confirms and crystallizes a number of themes and tropes prominent in his work throughout his career. The lone hero tirelessly works for the people, honors and even talks to his dead wife, sometimes resorts to more unsavory methods to accomplish his purpose.

The only difference here is the ultimate pessimism--his way cannot continue, his kind is dying out, tradition will pass away--and that we should mourn such a circumstance. Also, some nice expressionist flourishes.