Almost 9 years ago, I reviewed "Hondo" here; and, at the time, I did not think it was a "great" western. However, maybe I have "grown up" since then; because is truly one of not only John Wayne's best performances, it is also also one of the all time best westerns.
I could spend hours analyzing the symbolism in the Oscar-nominated script or the beautiful interaction between John Wayne and Geraldine Page, but that is a subject for film and acting classes and would also require spoilers. I will admit to offering one hint as to the turning point in "Hondo Lane's" life. If occurs immediately after Wayne is returned by the Apaches to the Lowe ranch.
John Wayne IS Hondo Lane, a half-breed dispatch rider for the US Cavalry. Wayne is first seen walking onto a ranch owned by Mrs. Angie Lowe (Geraldine Page, in an Oscar-nominated performance). Wayne's first appearance has all the moxie of his star-making performance in 'Stagecoach'. While not a man of few words, Hondo's are all carefully measured and to the point. He is concerned about Mrs. Lowe and her son. Moreover, Hondo is attracted to Angie, even though she is a married woman.
A lot has been said here and elsewhere about Wayne's acting ability. All I can say is, 'If you DON'T like Wayne, DON'T watch his movies.' I don't go out of the way to see movies with actors I don't like; and, when I do, and the actor surprises me in a good way, I say so. It seems many people see Wayne films JUST to belittle Wayne's performance. Don't you have anything BETTER to do? Wayne's performance here is as carefully measured as his words. Like most great actors, Wayne let's his face and eyes do most of the work. However, here Wayne has a dandy scene in which he first reveals his attraction to Angie. His 'I could find you in the dark, Mrs. Lowe; and I'm only PART Indian' monologue is one of the most passionate and erotic pieces of work I've seen in films from any period. That Wayne actually found Geraldine Page repulsive is even greater testimony to Wayne's acting here. 'Hondo' ranks as one of Wayne's great performances. Page is equally skillfull. Special note should be given to Michael Pate as Apache chief. His scenes are alternately menacing and touching, no small for ANY actor.
In my previous review of the movie, I criticized the ending, saying that "Hondo Lane" seems to "get lost in the crowd." That is actually the point of the movie. Watch it; and, hopefully you will understand what I mean. If not, I hope it does not take you as long as I to "get it."
I give "Hondo" a "10".
I could spend hours analyzing the symbolism in the Oscar-nominated script or the beautiful interaction between John Wayne and Geraldine Page, but that is a subject for film and acting classes and would also require spoilers. I will admit to offering one hint as to the turning point in "Hondo Lane's" life. If occurs immediately after Wayne is returned by the Apaches to the Lowe ranch.
John Wayne IS Hondo Lane, a half-breed dispatch rider for the US Cavalry. Wayne is first seen walking onto a ranch owned by Mrs. Angie Lowe (Geraldine Page, in an Oscar-nominated performance). Wayne's first appearance has all the moxie of his star-making performance in 'Stagecoach'. While not a man of few words, Hondo's are all carefully measured and to the point. He is concerned about Mrs. Lowe and her son. Moreover, Hondo is attracted to Angie, even though she is a married woman.
A lot has been said here and elsewhere about Wayne's acting ability. All I can say is, 'If you DON'T like Wayne, DON'T watch his movies.' I don't go out of the way to see movies with actors I don't like; and, when I do, and the actor surprises me in a good way, I say so. It seems many people see Wayne films JUST to belittle Wayne's performance. Don't you have anything BETTER to do? Wayne's performance here is as carefully measured as his words. Like most great actors, Wayne let's his face and eyes do most of the work. However, here Wayne has a dandy scene in which he first reveals his attraction to Angie. His 'I could find you in the dark, Mrs. Lowe; and I'm only PART Indian' monologue is one of the most passionate and erotic pieces of work I've seen in films from any period. That Wayne actually found Geraldine Page repulsive is even greater testimony to Wayne's acting here. 'Hondo' ranks as one of Wayne's great performances. Page is equally skillfull. Special note should be given to Michael Pate as Apache chief. His scenes are alternately menacing and touching, no small for ANY actor.
In my previous review of the movie, I criticized the ending, saying that "Hondo Lane" seems to "get lost in the crowd." That is actually the point of the movie. Watch it; and, hopefully you will understand what I mean. If not, I hope it does not take you as long as I to "get it."
I give "Hondo" a "10".