Today’s quick review: Red River. In 1851, Thomas Dunson (John Wayne) and Matthew Garth (Montgomery Clift) break off of a wagon train heading West to start their own cattle herd in the rich, unsettled land of Texas. Fifteen years later, they are the owners of the largest herd in the territory. But to cash in on their cattle, they have to transport them across a thousand miles of inhospitable terrain to Missouri.
Red River is a Western drama about a trailblazing cattle drive. John Wayne stars as Thomas Dunson, a cattle rancher who pushes himself and his men to the brink to get their herd to market. Montgomery Clift plays opposite him as Matthew Garth, Dunson’s protege and voice of reason on the long journey to Missouri. Red River is a Western of unusual scope, covering a vast undertaking takes its toll on Dunson, his men, and his relationship with Garth.
Red River uses its premise to good effect. Out of money and with no way to sell the cattle nearby, Dunson gambles everything on a journey that could be impossible. This fuels his desperation to see the journey through to the end, which alienates his men and jeopardizes the entire endeavor. Red River has a knack for ratcheting up the tension between Dunson and his men without painting either as irrevocably wrong.
That tension, coupled with Garth’s moderating influence, is what drives the film. The cattle drive is never far from disaster, and every incident along the way adjusts the balance of power between Dunson and his men. Meanwhile, Dunson’s obsession threatens to destroy a years-long friendship with Garth, who is forced to choose between the man he looks up to and the success of the drive. Red River offers plenty of drama in just the right places.
Red River manages to be a compelling tale about a bold undertaking, one that highlights the high cost of pioneer life. It does not have the easy rhythm of more formulaic Westerns, but it taps into richer character drama and a more meaningful plot. Anyone with a taste for the classics should give it a shot, as should any fans of John Wayne or dangerous journeys. Steer clear if you’re looking for a cleaner conflict or a more upbeat adventure.
For another John Wayne Western about a man who becomes obsessed over the course of a long journey, try The Searchers. For a more intimate tale of greed and corruption, try The Treasure of the Sierra Madre.
[7.8 out of 10 on IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0040724/). I give it a 7.5 for an expansive plot, compelling characters, and a high degree of craftsmanship.