Review of The Searchers (1956) by Ashley S — 31 May 2010

One of the best westerns ever made. I agree with those that call it John Ford's masterpiece. Each shot could almost be a painting or a still photograph. To anyone out there that questions John Wayne's acting talent - this is the movie that will change your mind.

I would consider this an "epic" western. It's story spans many years and takes us on a long journey with the men searching for Debbie, who was kidnapped in a raid. There's much more to it than that but I won't spoil it.

This is one of those films that critics tend to love and can be considered required of any film student - but it's not just technically a great film. It's entertaining and emotionally powerful too.

Sometimes when critics (the famous ones!...not me) go on and on and on about how important a film is, I think it can suck the life and entertainment qualities right out....making a perfectly good film sound boring or just academically good.

This film combines a great director and great actor at their best and if you like westerns, or John Wayne, you'll probably like this film.