When I think of old westerns, of course Clint Eastwood and John Wayne come to mind. But the term "really cheesy" also usually comes to mind.
I understand what western films are supposed to represent. The pioneers of the 19th century had a really tough time. As Americans, we want to believe that it was more exciting and "wild" than it really was, since the pioneers were fulfilling "manifest destiny". However, western films usually turn out to be unrealistic, with stereotypical or incorrect representations of minorities like Mexicans and Native Americans.
This past weekend, I was watching The Far Horizons, starring Charlton Heston. It was incredibly cheesy. Donna Reed played Sacajawea, who Charlton Heston's character nicknamed Janie! It was so bad, it made me laugh the whole time.
Stagecoach, on the other hand, was actually entertaining. Besides the obvious Mexican stereotypes and oh so violent Native Americans, the movie was not as cheesy and typical as other western films I have seen. Director John Ford actually hired real Native American and Mexican actors, which is neat. (besides the fact that the only Native Americans were either silent and violent murdering rapists) The stage coach driver was hilarious. He was, I feel, portraying a stereotypical dumb, big mouthed man.
I found it really interesting that the gamblers, prostitutes, drunks and convicts were incredibly shunned by their neighbors, yet they seemed to be the more caring and kind individuals. No one but Ringo would even sit by Dallas, yet Dallas always wanted to be there to care for Ms. Mallory.
I loved John Wayne in this movie. I've never paid much attention to him before- my grandpa is a huge fan of him but I was never drawn to him. I'd never actually seen one of his movies before this one. He was so cute! He played the character very well. His charm and chivalry was very attractive. I liked his suspenders, too.
I really enjoyed the ending of Stagecoach. Yay, convict Ringo Kid and hooker Dallas could finally live happily! The situation with Mr. Hatfield and Mrs. Mallory was bizarre, when he tried to kill her in order to potentially save her virtue.
I found it interesting that Doc Boone mentioned the blessings of civilization, but it was obvious that such people as them could not find acceptance and happiness in normal societ.
