“The Cowboys,” a film starring the iconic John Wayne, delivers a compelling performance anchored by Wayne himself and supported by a memorable cast including Roscoe Lee Browne and Bruce Dern. This movie showcases a different facet of John Wayne, moving beyond the typical stoic hero to reveal a more vulnerable, almost wistful side of his on-screen persona as an aging rancher. The narrative centers around his character’s struggle to assemble a team to drive his herd, setting the stage for a classic Western tale with unexpected depth.
The film distinguishes itself not just through Wayne’s portrayal but also with its ensemble of young actors. Initially, the group of boys hired to assist the rancher might suggest a lighter, more predictable storyline. However, “The Cowboys” quickly evolves, introducing intense scenarios that challenge these young characters and elevate the film beyond a simple Western adventure. The boys’ performances are surprisingly robust, adding a layer of authenticity to the challenges faced on the cattle drive.
Roscoe Lee Browne steps into the role of Jedediah Nightlinger, a character that, in less nuanced films, could easily fall into the trope of the ‘wise Black man’. While the character does offer sage advice, Browne imbues him with a dignity and intelligence that transcends clichés. Notably, “The Cowboys” addresses the realities of race in the Old West with a degree of realism seldom seen. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting varied reactions to a Black man in this setting, adding a layer of social commentary to the Western genre.
Bruce Dern’s portrayal of the antagonist, Long Hair, is a standout element of the film. Dern masterfully crafts a villain who is unsettling from his first appearance. Initially attempting to present a charming facade, Long Hair’s true nature is gradually revealed, escalating into a genuinely menacing presence. His disturbing confrontation with one of the young cowboys and a later, intense showdown with John Wayne firmly establish him as one of the most chilling villains in Western cinema. Dern’s ability to project menace and unpredictability makes him a truly memorable Western bad guy.
While the overarching plot of “The Cowboys” adheres to familiar Western tropes, it effectively builds tension and delivers a significant surprise during a late-film conflict. The film’s pacing is deliberate; it takes some time to establish the premise and characters. However, once the narrative shifts to the scenes with the boys in the corral, the movie finds its stride and maintains a compelling rhythm throughout.
In conclusion, “The Cowboys” stands as a strong entry in the Western genre and a noteworthy film in John Wayne’s extensive career. It is characterized by excellent performances across the board, particularly from Wayne, Dern, and Browne, and it offers a more nuanced and at times intense take on the classic cowboy story. For enthusiasts of John Wayne and the Western genre, “The Cowboys” is a film that provides both classic Western elements and surprising depth.
