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Stagecoach (1939)
7/10
Worth watching again
4 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
"Stagecoach" directed by John Ford is a classic, well loved, western film. One of his more famous films, this western depicts many people journeying inside a stagecoach to reach a town. All of these people come from all walks of life and must ride along together and "survive" Native Americans taking land. Many films were later modeled by this western classic, Which could contribute to why many people today would not care for this film.

Though many of these characters are very different from each other, they slowly come to respect each other. This is shown by Mrs. Mallory and Dallas. Mrs. Mallory shows her support and respect for Dallas, for helping with her child. Though this process is slow, because of their reluctance towards each other. With the growing threat of Apaches growing, they come together and help each other out while traveling. With this also comes comedy amongst each other and many action scenes.

"Stagecoach" is a relatively older movie and with that comes black and white screens, no great audio quality, and the lack of cgi. Yes, this film has very different methods of action scenes than those many are used too. The action scenes in this film are real and require very creative methods. For example, when the stagecoach crosses the river, they really tied large wooden poles to the coach, and had a wire pull the coach underwater. This won an award once the movie hit the screens.

This film also wrestles with the stereotype of "savage" Natives. Though this was very common during this time, many people would be offended by it today. The Apaches play Natives burning down ranches and houses in an attempt to gain land and drive the soldiers out. Many Native Americans in film have been subjected to many stereotypes; for example, the "drunk" Native, the "savage" one, the "wise" and "spiritual" one, and the "comedic" one. Though this shows people many different sides to Native Americans, not all are true.

Although this film offers camaraderie amongst strangers and romance.! Romance between Dallas and Ringo, along with Mrs. Mallory's undying determination to get to her husband. Dallas isn't considered a "lady" amongst societal standards. Though she tries to be kind and caring towards the others, they dismiss her. All except Ringo, who demands she be treated the same as Mrs. Mallory. Though this brings some depth into the characters, it also adds to the storyline.

I believe this is a movie worth watching again, many people may disagree. There is also to take into account people's own personal taste.! This film is one I never expected to like, but I like it very much. Many films have been inspired by "Stagecoach" and this particular film offers it all. Action, suspense, comedy, and romance.
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