True Grit

Directed by: Joel and Ethan Coen
Release date: 11 Feb 2011 UK / 22 Dec 2010 USA
Starring: Jeff Bridges, Hailee Steinfeld, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin



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He said:

I have waited for what seemed like ages for True Grit to finally be released in the U.K. I have always enjoyed the old-west genre and it is very rare that I don't enjoy a Coen brothers film. True Grit successfully ticks all of the boxes of the classic western films that I watched with my grandpa when I was younger.

The role that has gotten the most attention in the reviews thus far is Jeff Bridges portrayal of Rueben "Rooster" Cogburn, the role first made famous by John "The Duke" Wayne. But there are several performances in this film that stand out on their own. Hailee Steinfeld displays amazing poise and skill as the young and spirited Mattie Ross determined to bring her father's murderer to justice.

Matt Damon slipped into the role of Texas Ranger LeBeuf (pronounced lebeef) with ease and is honestly one of my favourite characters in this film, LeBeuf is a man that enjoys the sound of his own voice as much as the pride in his profession as a Texas Ranger. Damon plays the role perfectly and gives the impression that he enjoyed every minute of it.

This film is best described as a traditional western. The pace is relaxed, but the narrative is constantly flowing through out its 110 minute running time. The visuals in this film are absolutely stunning, the Coen brothers used the landscape as it's own individual character providing both conflict and respite for the travelling trio. I give this film {{{4 out of 5}}}

She said:

I am definitely not a fan of Westerns as a genre. My class was forced to study Westerns in my Sixth Form media class and I have resented them ever since. It is interesting though because I am fascinated by the American West and when I studied its history in a different class I loved it. Bearing all this in mind I was weary about how I would find True Grit but I knew it would be fantastic. It was.

I disagree with my better half. I don't think that this is a traditional Western, I think it is a homage to a traditional Western made for a modern day audience. Where usually I find the Coen brothers strange their style fit this project like a glove. The humour was sharp and witty, and played on the performances the actors were giving. The pace was also much better than in traditional Westerns, which I find slow-paced.

The trio of actors - Steinfield, Damon and Bridges - are the stars of this film. Hailee Steinfield has the rare talent of playing a role completely straight and still making it hilarious, which I think if a rare gift. This worked brilliantly with Bridges and Damon who often acted more like children that the girl did! Very funny. I was glad we went to see this. I give it {{{4 out of 5}}}

They said: Whether you're a fan of Westerns or not we think there is something in this film for everyone to enjoy. It also showcases some fantastic performances that will make you laugh and care. We give this film {{{8 out of 10}}}

Question for the comments: Are you a fan of Westerns?