Review of The Searchers (1956) by Aj V — 13 Nov 2010
I commend director John Ford for showing a tough, macho character as flawed and racist, especially if it's played by John Wayne. A tale of anger and vengeance in response to pain, which are seen as necessary in moulding a great nation (ha ha), 'The Searchers' follows Ethan's (Wayne) journey from an isolated and rugged racist soldier who pines for his sister-in-law to a not-so isolated soldier who sees the hate and stupidity of his views.
The audience is urged to relate to Ethan's propensity to violence and racist outlook, but Ford then turns the tables on the narrow-minded 1950s' society and shows them the shallowness of their beliefs.
Viewers are shocked by the outward racism of Ethan and his sidekick towards native Americans, but by presenting these nasty components openly, the movie provides an avenue for racist Ethan, and racist Americans, to seek a new path to integration.
This review of The Searchers (1956) was written by Aj V on 13 Nov 2010.
The Searchers has generally received very positive reviews.
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