film #6

Stagecoach

Pretty cool. Pretty dull on the first watch but I was sleepy and just trying to get through it… I have a feeling that I might like it more on second watch. I loved the characters on the trip- nine or ten distinct and interesting personalities- the tough but good marshall, the goofy driver, the imperial, enraged banker, the vaguely sinister, gentlemanly gambler, the put-upon prostitute, the drunk doctor, the meek preacher, the delicately haughty lady, the iconic gentleman cowboy. John Wayne, frankly, is pretty hot in this film. That voice, that bearing. Having finally seen his work, rather than just going on osmotic familiarity, I absolutely recognize that rugged sex symbol appeal.

The film rather reminds me of Gosford Park… it's less about what's happening and more about how the class of the characters affects their interactions. The Southern Gent, so kindly and affectionate to Mrs. Malloy, while Dallas is perpetually looked down upon, treated almost as if she's invisible- except by Ringo (and the Doctor.) The Ladies of the Law and Order Society. The banker angrily pronouncing that the nation needs a businessman president.

stray observations:

• "Ringo? I thought he was in the band!"- Buck (his tone sounds so much like he's knowingly making a pun… a pun FROM THE FUTURE)
• (being told by Hatfield that he's not behaving like a gentleman, the doctor says:) "Three weeks ago I took a bullet out of a man who was shot by a gentleman. The bullet was in his back." …badass retort
• In the vote to press on or stay, each person answers according to their character. Their priorities, their perspectives, uniquely in view from each answer.
• I Really like the music. Terrific, adventurous brass.
• Awesome stunts in the climactic chase/battle scene. The Indian falling off the horses and getting trampled over by the stagecoach… Ringo leaping from horse to horse.
• my favorite shot in the film- the overhead angle as the stagecoach floats across the river. Incredible. (better in black and white, too.)
• I knew I recognized Buck's voice! I knew it- he's Friar Tuck in the classic Disney Robin Hood.