Review of The Searchers (1956) by Matt G — 10 Sep 2009

This is most definitely visually an amazing an achievement by Ford, in some ways I almost want to see the film for it's visuals solely. It did bring about a new style of Westerns, but this is in the messy transitional stage where it half works and half doesn't.

Wayne's usual annoying self is kept in check and he actually plays this anti-hero pretty well. It's a shame that the film is nearly ruined by a frustratingly overwhelming score and poor writing.

The writing in many ways is the major problem with times that are funny and entertaining as well as times where they are trying too hard. The film is a bit more soap operatic compared to what I thought from former viewings as well and some the dialogue is truly atrocious.

Also as many historians have noticed it is hard to get past the racial stereotypes and caricatures that are presented here. I know others will say, but that's what the '50s were like back then, yes, but it still shouldn't get a pass.

I have loved Westerns ever since I was young and this is still solid, but has many more problems than I first thought on other viewings. That on top of the racial caricatures make it not a film that I can say I like too much, but I respect it for what it is.

But I must say that there are films I think that are better from the period, like High Noon and I am most definitely an ardent fan of the Westerns that came just after this period from the likes of Leone, Peckinpah, and George Roy Hill.