Today’s quick review: The Quiet Man. American boxer Sean Thornton (John Wayne) returns to his native Ireland to start a new, peaceful life in the quiet town of Inisfree. There he falls in love with Mary Kate Danaher (Maureen O’Hara), a fiery woman with no dowry, and manages to win her heart with the help of a crafty old local (Barry Fitzgerald). But before Sean can tie the knot, he’ll need the approval of her stubborn brother Will (Victor McLaglen).
The Quiet Man is a romance set in the green hills of rural Ireland. The story follows Sean Thornton as he settles into life in the Irish countryside and wrestles with the obstacles standing between him and marriage to the woman he loves. The Quiet Man features an excellent cast, delightful comedy, a gorgeous setting, and a story that’s uniquely Irish in character. The film’s quality and originality make it a must-see for fans of old-fashioned romance.
Nearly all of The Quiet Man’s considerable charm comes from its vivid characters. John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara are effective leads with great chemistry, but they’re almost lost in the sea of lively performances from the townfolk. The town of Inisfree is brimming with character. The townsfolk are proud but loyal, the clergymen are lax and friendly, and there’s always time for a conversation, an argument, or the latest piece of gossip.
The film’s characters give rise to a rather unique spin on the romance genre. Sean Thornton has to fight not only to win Mary Kate’s heart, but to overcome the disapproval of her brother, settle the sticking point of her dowry, and stand by his own non-violent principles, all while adhering to the town’s strict rules for courtship and marriage. These conflicts lead to a rich and satisfying story of devotion, cunning, and perseverance.
Watch The Quiet Man if you’re in the mood for a spirited, antagonistic romance with a light tone and plenty of comedy. The Quiet Man turns a simple premise into a lively tale that earns its place as a classic. Steer clear if you prefer modern romance, as the film is decidedly old-fashioned in character. For something similar, try Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Brigadoon, or The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain.
7.8 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for vivid characters, a sweet story, and plenty of charm.