She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949)

Director: John Ford
Starring: John Wayne, Joanne Dru, John Agar

Synopsis:
Following Custer's defeat, the threat of worsening hostilities dog a cavalry captain nearing retirement as he leads his last patrol while escorting the wife and niece of his commander.

Impressions:
Normally a role like that of Captain Nathan Brittles would be reserved for an older actor, who like the character is nearing the end of his career. That John Wayne was able to pull this off at 41 is rather impressive. This is an entertaining yarn with a goof story and a colorful cast of characters. I particularly liked the dynamic between Brittles and Quincannon (Victor McLaglen) and with Sergeant Tyree (Ben Johnson). I also want to give a nod to Chief John Big Tree for a brief but memorable scene as Chief Pony That Walks. It's worth seeing and I recommend it.

Rating:
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