"True Grit" Has Plenty of Grit

When I heard the movie people were going to release a remake of "True Grit," I have to admit I cringed a little. I've always been a big John Wayne fan, especially his westerns, and the thought of someone trying to redo his movie role didn't please me at all. On the other hand, since it's hard to find a good western these days and the fact that this version was done by Joel and Ethan Coen, I decided to give it a look and see how well they did.

"True Grit" is the story of 14-year-old Mattie Ross, played by Hailee Steinfeld, who's father is shot down and robbed by the scoundrel Tom Chaney, played by Josh Brolin. The two men had left home to purchase some horses when Chaney killed Mattie's father, and the story begins when she comes to town to claim her father's body and take care of his business. Determined to find Chaney and see him punished for the murder of her father, Mattie Ross hires the meanest and toughest U.S. Marshall she can find, Rooster Cogburn.

Rooster Cogburn, played by Jeff Bridges, gives a very convincing performance as the scraggly and tough old marshal. In fact, I felt Bridges' version was more authentic to the original character than John Wayne's version. Unfortunately, it seemed to me his portrayal of Rooster Cogburn did not convey the emotional attachment between him and young Mattie Ross, something the original version contained. Although I felt the two gained mutual respect for each other, the movie differed from John Wayne's version, and I think the emotional attachment was needed.

The other primary character in the story of "True Grit" is Texas Ranger Le Boeuf, played by Matt Damon. In the original movie, Glen Campbell played the young Texas Ranger adequately, but it wasn't difficult to allow Damon to fill his shoes. Le Boeuf, too, is after Chaney, but his reason is a large reward for a crime he committed in Texas. He convinces Rooster both could benefit if they teamed up, an idea which doesn't sit well with Mattie Ross. As they made plans to leave, Mattie is determined to be a part of Chaney's capture and thwarts all attempts to leave her behind while they pursue the outlaw. Eventually, the two lawmen learn it's easier to allow her to accompany them.

"True Grit" is a good movie and worth a western fan's time. The best way to watch the movie is with a fresh eye and try not to compare it to the original. For viewers who appreciate the more authentic gritty lifestyle of the old west, "True Grit" will fit the bill. Those viewers, like myself, who still love the old style hero like John Wayne will also enjoy it. I highly recommend "True Grit."

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