Rating of
3.5/4
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 05/30/13
"You taught her to read and write, now give her something to read and write about!" One of the most emotional and provocative of its genre. Ransom "Ranse" Stoddard (James Stewart) narrates his story to reporters. He mentions how he met an eclectic sharpshooter named Tom Doniphon (John Wayne) and Hallie (Vera Miles). Ranse recalls how he was beaten by an outlaw by the name of Liberty Valance (Lee Marvin). Tom rescues Ransom and is tendered to by Peter Ericson (John Qualen), his wife Nora (Jeanette Nolan) and daughter Hallie. The film provides excellent character build-up, apt cinematography, colorful score and earnest performances especially from James Stewart. It shows a different side of his character which portrays a myriad of emotions. The plot likewise was very engaging with a twist in the near conclusion. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance presents various themes such as the press, cowardice, relying on the law over violence, facts and guilt. One of Ford's entertaining films with an unexpected conclusion, where one gets the girl and the other kills the bad guy.
