Clint Eastwood's Top Pick: John Wayne's Favorite Western

Clint Eastwood's love for western films is evident in his admiration for Howard Hawks' Red River, among other favorites.

Clint Eastwood, a name synonymous with western cinema, has solidified his iconic status through his portrayal of the gunslinging outlaw archetype. While he has explored various genres throughout his career, it is the western genre that remains his defining association. Whether as an actor, director, or larger-than-life figure, Eastwood has left an indelible mark on the industry.

As an actor, Eastwood's commanding aura requires nothing more than a vacant gaze and sporadic expressions to captivate audiences. His presence alone demands attention and respect. But it is as a director that he truly showcases his admiration for the western genre. He consistently revisits and explores similar storylines, displaying an awareness of his own legendary status.

Eastwood's love for western films is evident as he openly discusses his favorite movies within the genre. One film that holds a special place in his heart is Howard Hawks' Red River. This film takes a different path by delving into the generational divide between varying concepts of manliness. It skillfully depicts the dynamic between an aging, rigid cattle driver and his youthful apprentice, challenging traditional notions of masculinity.

Hawks, one of the triumvirates that greatly influenced Eastwood's artistic trajectory, is commended for his versatile range. He seamlessly transitions from films like Red River to His Girl Friday, showcasing contrasting rhythms and perspectives. John Wayne, an undeniable titan of the genre, takes center stage in Red River, despite his differing viewpoints from Eastwood.

As Eastwood emerged onto the scene in the 1970s, Wayne's star was gradually waning. Their western interpretations diverged widely, with Wayne embodying the honorable American protagonist and Eastwood portraying morally complex antiheroes with a European flair. This ideological disparity prevented the realization of their on-screen confrontation in The Hostiles, a script that proposed a showdown between the two giants but was swiftly dismissed by Wayne himself.

In addition to Red River, Eastwood also cites two other films that he particularly enjoys, both of which he directed. The first is The Outlaw Josey Wales, released in 1976. Eastwood takes on the lead role as a Missouri farmer seeking vengeance after his family is brutally killed by Union soldiers during the American Civil War. The second film is Unforgiven, released in 1992, where Eastwood stars as William Munny, an aging former outlaw who reluctantly accepts one last assignment. He shares the screen with Gene Hackman, Morgan Freeman, and Richard Harris.

Clint Eastwood's impact on western cinema is undeniable. From his iconic portrayal of 'The Man With No Name' to his exploration of complex characters and storylines as a director, he has left an indelible mark on the genre. His love for western films, including Red River, showcases his admiration for the genre's rich history. As audiences continue to appreciate his contributions, Clint Eastwood's name will forever be synonymous with the western genre.