Review of The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962) by Nelson M — 16 Jul 2012
It's no surprise that John Ford is a master filmmaker, but there's something about this film that separates it from other Ford films. This is, ultimately, a rather bitter and pessimistic film which has dashes of hope and optimism here and there.
Not that Ford's films are all sugar and sweetness but for a film starring John Wayne and James Stewart in the early sixties this is quite the shocking film. However, it is absolutely magnificent for more than just the themes.
The acting is superb, to say the least, and the staging and lighting is something to behold. This is one of the more philosophically deep of the Ford films, making one wonder just how the world works and what motivates and moves a person to do what they need to do.
This isn't just a great western, it's a great film all over.
This review of The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962) was written by Nelson M on 16 Jul 2012.
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance has generally received very positive reviews.
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