Big John = Big Jake = Big Western

Starring: John Wayne, Richard Boone, Maureen O'Hara, Patrick Wayne, Christopher Mitchum, Bruce Cabot, Harry Carey Jr., John Doucette

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ - good

"Anything happens, anything at all, your fault, my fault, nobody's fault... my little brother will blow that kid's head right off." – the kidnapper John Fain

Why watch this? This is classic Wayne in his later films; big, bold, stern and tough!

Plot Summary: In 1909, a ruthless gang led by John Fain raids the McCandles ranch, kidnapping young Jacob "Little Jake" McCandles for a large ransom. To retrieve the boy, his estranged grandfather, the legendary tough guy "Big Jake" McCandles, is called upon to track down the kidnappers and negotiate for his grandson's life. Big Jake, along with his estranged sons and loyal companions brave the dangerous journey to rescue the boy.

Dad's Preview: This film was a favorite for "movie day" at my high school back in Texas. Of the many Westerns made after the actor turned 60, this is his best. It should also be noted that this film amped up the blood and violence, a sign of changing times in cinema that even Duke Wayne could not ignore. That said, there are many great moments, and I really enjoy each interaction between Wayne and the gang's leader portrayed by the gruff Richard Boone - his performance is quite chilling.

Cinema Center Films, Batjac Productions; National General Pictures