Rio Grande (1950)

The last installment of John Ford's Calvary Trilogy. Not the best of him or Wayne for that matter but it is still a worthwhile film. First there is the tension in the paring between Wayne and Maureen O'Harra as they quarrel about what to do about their young son who is a member of Wayne's unit. There is a supporting cast including the likes of Victor McLaglen, Ben Johnson, Harey Carey Jr., and Calude Jarman Jr.

While watching it I was just thinking how Ford has so many great looking films in both color and black and white. This one uses the latter as well as a Monument Valley backdrop to perfection. It just looks so beautiful in every shot and Maureen O'Hara does not hurt the eyes either for that matter.

Soon after Ford would pair again with a few of his stars to make another little film. Anyone for The Quiet Man?

3.5/5 Stars