Stagecoach (1939)

Claire Trevor and John Wayne

'Stagecoach' is a classic Western film made in 1939, directed by John Ford, and starring Claire Trevor and John Wayne. The film follows a group of nine travellers riding on a stagecoach through hostile Indian territory.

It was one of the most influential movies ever made and it changed forever the way the Western genre was viewed. Previously Westerns had always been seen as cheap, low quality 'B' movies but after 'Stagecoach' they were elevated to a serious genre, able to explore rich and complex social themes. As well as being universally praised by the critics, the film was also a major box-office success.

In 1939, an outstanding year for movies, the competition for Academy recognition was more ferocious than ever. 'Gone with the Wind' picked up most plaudits but 'Stagecoach' was nominated for seven Academy Awards and won two, for Best Supporting Actor (Thomas Mitchell) and Best Score (for its compilation of 17 American folk tunes of the 1880s). John Ford's reputation as a top director was considerably enhanced. It was his first sound Western and he went on to make many more on location in Monument Valley, Utah, many of which also starred John Wayne.

The movie is cleverly structured with a basically simple plot, allowing important themes such as social prejudice, alcoholism, and greed to be explored whilst not losing the fast paced narrative and characterisations of the main story. The characters and background of each traveller vary widely and the film explores how they interract and develop in confined and stressful situations. After introducing the occupants of the coach we meet the hero of the movie, the Ringo Kid, played by John Wayne.

During their journey all the travellers are placed in a position of danger, in which their true characters are tested so in addition to the physical journey they also undertake a journey of sef-awareness and discovery. As well as the psychological dramas, the film contains plenty of traditional action and before the film ends the Ringo Kid has risked his life fighting the Indians, when he could easily have run away, and his bravery helps him win the girl, as he and Dallas, played by Claire Trevor, fall in love. The sheriff sends the couple away to start a new life together and refuses to arrest him due to his brave actions. And so a happy ending ensues.