Brannigan (1975)

Director: Douglas Hickox
Starring: John Wayne, Richard Attenborough, Judy Geeson

Synopsis:
A Chicago police lieutenant goes to London to extradite a crime boss who has put out a contract for his death.

Impressions:
Near the end of his career, John Wayne tried branching out a bit with a couple modern day cop movies and this is the latter of the two. Apparently Wayne later said he wouldn't have made this if he knew about the lukewarm reception of the previous film, McQ. I actually like this one better, perhaps because it did more to subvert my expectations and I liked seeing the Duke play opposite to Sir Richard Attenborough as Commander Sir Charles Swann of Scotland Yard. I also liked Judy Geeson as Sergeant Jennifer Thatcher, who acts as the title character's minder while in London. John Vernon always has strong screen presence, so he's a nice choice as bad guy Larkin, but without spoiling things, his role isn't quite what you expect. There's also a small bit by Brian Glover I feel like noting just 'cause. John Wayne wasn't in great shape, dealing with a lot of health issues which hampered his ability to have too much of an action role, but there is a good pub brawl scene which almost is enough to make the entire movie worth it. This is slightly above average as far as cop movies go, so give it a watch.

Rating:
Watch It