First, I'd like to mention that I am not, nor ever have been a Western genre film fan. Having said that, "Red River" might have just made a believer out of me. Rather than bore you with the plot, which you've probably read, I will say that you simply shouldn't miss seeing this powerful picture. Whether or not you like Westerns, you will appreciate this film for its values which transcend genre. However, the great 'wild west' has significance, as the location of this epic is as important to the film as its fine group of actors. The incredible cinematography (b&w) accents the hills, valleys and water so beautifully that having the color would somehow spoil the experience. A wonderful score adds pace, drama and emotion to a very well-written, fully developed screenplay. And the superlative performances by all players create characters that are new, exciting and unforgettable. Finally, the two lead actors, John Wayne and the new-comer Montgomery Clift, are like two pillars that hold the picture together. It is their performances that keep it moving and interesting. Wayne is on top of his game and the young Clift could have fooled you into thinking that he'd been around a block quite a few times. In reality, this was Monte's only second picture and filmed the same year as his Oscar-nominated performance in "The Search", so, really he had been quite an unknown at this point. Therefore, "Red River" directors, besides creating an unforgettable picture that it is, also took quite a chance on Clift, with the incredible result. There aren't that many great films around anymore. Treat yourself with "Red River" and experience the fun, adventure and the greatness that doesn't come around that often.
