Alright folks, it’s time for a Classics themed review. After complaining about Gary Cooper’s “High Noon” (I haven’t seen it) as “un-American,” John Wayne & Howard Hawks team up to make a western about sheriff teaming up with a drunk, an old deputy and a youngster to defend a small town from bad guys the right way. The premise I’m referring to is none other than “Rio Bravo.”
Rio Bravo was officially released in 1959. (same year Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest came out) It earned good reviews from critics and movie goers alike. In addition to praise, the film made enough revenue at the box office. In 2014, Rio Bravo was selected for preservation by the Library of Congress in the National Film Registry. Rio Bravo remains as one of the best western films of all time.
When I was a kid growing up, I used to watch a few John Wayne westerns including “The Searchers,” “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance,” “El Dorado” & “True Grit.” My dad introduced me to him. We would often hang out and watch The Duke’s work on DVD. Speaking of westerns, Kevin Costner’s highly anticipated two-part epic western, “Horizon: An American Frontier” (has no connection to Horizon: Zero Dawn) will be released in 2024. Before it comes out, I wanna share my thoughts on Rio Bravo.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see this gem.
Right & Wrong Aspects
Right: John Wayne, Dean Martin, Ricky Nelson & Walter Brennan all did a superb job for their respective performances.
Howard Hawks did a solid job directing. He also produced the film.
Fun Fact 1: Quentin Tarantino named Rio Bravo as one of his favorite films. He picks it as a date for a potential girlfriend. If the girl likes it, Quentin will accept a relationship. He calls Rio Bravo as the best “hang out movie.”
Fun Fact 2: John Carpenter mentioned Rio Bravo as the inspiration for “Assault on Precinct 13.” He also talked about it with the late Robert Osborne on Turner Classic Movies.
Fun Fact 3: Howard Hawks & John Wayne worked together making El Dorado & “Rio Lobo.” Basically, redoing Rio Bravo twice.
Fun Fact 4: The cowboy killed in the beginning, is actually Kurt Russell’s father, Bing. Kurt later made his film debut as a kid in the Elvis Presley movie, “It Happened At the World’s Fair.” Don’t believe me? Google it.
Chemistry between Chance, Dude, Colorado & Stumpy serves as the main highlight. Their interactions move the story forward.
Set Pieces and Costume Designs were crafted, reflecting the Old West.
Pacing felt stable for a 141-minute film. Nearly two-and-half hours long.
Cinematography was shot pretty good.
Dean & Ricky perform “My Rifle, My Pony and Me.” The song was played on “The Sopranos” episode, “Pie-O-My.”
Wrong: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving the cast and crew an Extra Point for making a flawless western as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APeX!
Rio Bravo still holds up. If you’re a fan of westerns or fascinated with the Golden Age of Hollywood, this one’s a must-see. What’s your favorite western? Please leave a comment. My all-time pick is “Logan.”
Nickthemoviecritic.com 