Chisum, a 1970 Western starring the legendary John Wayne, remains a beloved film for fans of the genre and “The Duke” himself. Directed by Andrew McLaglen, this Warner Bros. production offers a compelling look into the Lincoln County War, wrapped in the classic John Wayne cinematic style. This article delves into the details of John Wayne Chisum, exploring its cast, production, and interesting behind-the-scenes facts that make it a standout in Wayne’s extensive filmography.
The All-Star Cast of Chisum
One of the strengths of John Wayne Chisum is its impressive ensemble cast, bringing together seasoned Western actors and rising stars. Leading the charge is, of course, John Wayne as John Simpson Chisum, the central figure in this historical fiction. Alongside Wayne, the film features:
- Forrest Tucker as Lawrence Murphy: Tucker portrays the antagonist, the powerful and unscrupulous businessman challenging Chisum’s way of life.
- Christopher George as Dan Nodeen: George adds depth to the narrative as a key player in the unfolding conflict.
- Ben Johnson as James Pepper: A familiar face in Westerns, Johnson brings his authentic presence to the role of Pepper.
- Glenn Corbett as Pat Garrett: Before his legendary status, Pat Garrett is depicted in his earlier days, played by Corbett.
- Andrew Prine as Alex McSween: Prine embodies the principled lawyer caught in the crossfire of the Lincoln County War.
- Bruce Cabot as Sheriff Brady: Cabot portrays the local lawman, adding another layer to the power dynamics in the film.
- Patric Knowles as Henry Tunstall: Knowles plays the honorable Englishman whose friendship with Billy the Kid sets key events in motion.
- Richard Jaeckel as Jess Evans: Jaeckel is part of Murphy’s faction, contributing to the escalating tension.
- Lynda Day George as Sue McSween: George portrays Alex McSween’s wife, adding a personal dimension to the larger conflict.
- Geoffrey Deuel as Billy ‘The Kid’ Bonney: Deuel takes on the iconic role of Billy the Kid, a pivotal character in the Lincoln County War.
This robust cast, filled with recognizable names and talents, enhances the viewing experience of John Wayne Chisum, making each character impactful within the film’s narrative.
Production Details and Behind-the-Scenes Glimpses
John Wayne Chisum was a significant production, benefiting from experienced hands both in front of and behind the camera. Andrew McLaglen, known for his Western expertise, directed the film, while Andrew J. Fenady took on producing duties. Michael Wayne, John Wayne’s son, served as executive producer, further cementing the family affair aspect of many of Wayne’s productions.
The film’s music was composed by Dominic Frontiere, who also contributed original songs to the soundtrack, including “Turn Me Around” and “Ballad of John Chisum,” adding to the film’s atmosphere. William H. Clothier’s cinematography captured the vast landscapes and action sequences, a hallmark of classic Westerns.
Interestingly, the production of John Wayne Chisum coincided with a significant moment for John Wayne personally. While filming in Mexico, Wayne received news of his Golden Globe win and Oscar nomination for True Grit (1969), showcasing his continued recognition in the industry.
Another noteworthy on-set event was the budding romance between Christopher George and Lynda Day George. Having met prior, their collaboration on John Wayne Chisum sparked a deeper connection, leading to their marriage later on.
The film also shares a production detail with another John Wayne Western, Big Jake (1971). The Chisum Ranch house seen in the film is the same location used for Big Jake, filmed just a year later, highlighting the use of established sets and locations within the Western genre.
Trivia, Goofs, and Memorable Quotes
Like many films, John Wayne Chisum has accumulated its share of interesting trivia and on-screen goofs over the years, adding to its legacy and providing talking points for film enthusiasts.
One recurring point of trivia revolves around stunt work. John Wayne reportedly expressed disappointment with the visibility of his stunt double during the final fight scene with Forrest Tucker. However, the film also boasts an extensive stunt team, including seasoned professionals like Dick Bullock, Joe Canutt, and Cliff Lyons, highlighting the physical demands of creating a Western.
Eagle-eyed viewers have spotted various goofs, such as crew shadows visible during the supply train ambush and a camera briefly appearing in a shot. Continuity errors, like the changing lengths of store curtains and the fluctuating presence of Pepper’s facial hair, also add to the film’s collection of minor mistakes.
Despite these minor errors, John Wayne Chisum delivers memorable moments and lines. While specific quotes are readily available from online resources like IMDb, the film’s dialogue and Wayne’s delivery contribute to its enduring appeal.
Filming Locations that Bring the West to Life
John Wayne Chisum utilized authentic locations to immerse viewers in the Western setting. Filming took place in:
- Durango, Mexico: A popular location for Westerns, Durango offered suitable landscapes and established infrastructure for filmmaking.
- Eaves Movie Ranch, Santa Fe, New Mexico: This ranch, a historic filming location, provided classic Western backdrops.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA: Filming also occurred in and around Santa Fe, further grounding the film in the American West.
These locations contribute to the visual authenticity of John Wayne Chisum, enhancing the overall viewing experience and transporting audiences to the era of cattle barons and frontier conflicts.
In conclusion, John Wayne Chisum stands as a solid entry in John Wayne’s Western filmography. With its strong cast, detailed production, and intriguing trivia, it continues to entertain and captivate audiences who appreciate classic Westerns and the enduring legacy of John Wayne.
