John Wayne in the 1969 version of "True Grit"
Jeff Bridges in the 2010 remake
The new “True Grit” plays the Palace Friday, January 21 through Thursday, January 27 at 7 p.m. nightly, and Monday, January 24 at 2 p.m. Topping the national box office, this film runs 110 minutes and is rated PG-13 for disturbing violence.
If you Goggle “True Grit – Ebert,” Roger Ebert’s 1969 review of the John Wayne classic is at the top of the list. Ebert gave that film 4 out of 4 stars.
Ebert docked the recent Coen Brothers remake by half a star (3½ out of 4), but I think that’s only out of respect for the Duke. On several occasions throughout the 1960s and 70s, Roger Ebert had the opportunity to meet and speak with John Wayne. He is obviously a huge fan.
Bridges doesn't have the archetypal stature of the Duke. Few ever have. But he has here, I believe, an equal screen presence. We always knew we were looking at John Wayne in the original “True Grit” (1969). When we see Rooster Cogburn in this version, we're not thinking about Jeff Bridges. Bridges' interpretation is no doubt closer to the reality of a lawman in those years of the West. ~ Ebert
14-year-old farm girl, Mattie Ross, played by newcomer Hailee Steinfeld, sets out to avenge the murder of her father. She hires the toughest U.S. marshal she can find, a man with "true grit," Reuben J. "Rooster" Cogburn (Bridges). Against his wishes, Mattie insists on accompanying Cogburn, whose drinking, sloth, and overall bad character do not give her much hope. They are joined by Texas Ranger LaBoeuf (Matt Damon), who wants the murderer (Josh Brolin) for his own purposes. The unlikely trio find danger and surprise on the journey, and each has his or her "grit" tested.
I, too, am a big fan of the Duke. Actually, it may be more accurate to say I have very fond memories. My dad loved the Duke. We had one TV. Therefore, we were all privileged to watch and love John Wayne. I remember watching “Sands of Iwo Jima” a million times, but don’t think I ever saw “True Grit.”
Let me know if you’ve seen the 1969 version. Thanks to volunteer Cheryl Brereton, I have a VHS version at my disposal and really wanted to show it at the Palace before our “True Grit” run, but couldn’t squeeze it into the schedule. Anyway, I still hope to watch it myself yet this week. I await your feedback.
Speaking of feedback – I had to share the following email regarding “Yogi Bear.” We love hearing from our loyal patrons, especially when they make us laugh!
Went to this movie in CR. Worst movie I have ever seen. Wish I would have waited and went to see in Vinton. PLUS - We always go to the movies in Vinton. I know now why. Spent close to $50 for 3 of us to see the movie and have a drink and share a popcorn. Then it was so bad!! You guys are awesome!
*SMILE* Hope to see you in the cheap seats – soon!
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Ed's note:
Shots of "True Grit" then and now
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