Old gunfighter John Books (John Wayne) arrives in Carson City, Nevada in 1901 seeking a second opinion from Doc Hostetler (James Stewart). He has less than two months after cancer is confirmed. He rents a room from widow Bond Rogers (Lauren Bacall) and her son Gillom (Ron Howard). Stable hand Moses discovers his true identity and Gillom is star-struck. Bond tries to throw him out. Marshal Walter Thibido (Harry Morgan) is only too happy when he reveals that he's there to die in peace. Hostetler tells him that it will be a painful death. News spread and enemies come gunning for him. Others come looking to cash in.
This is John Wayne's final film. He still has the presence. It hearkens back to so much history of Hollywood westerns. Lauren Bacall is absolutely great. James Stewart joins them adding to that immense depth. This is a great nostalgic journey. I would have liked it to be much darker in tone and more action. It does take a look at the act of dying. The search for peace and resignation at the end of this gunslinger's life is very compelling.
This is John Wayne's final film. He still has the presence. It hearkens back to so much history of Hollywood westerns. Lauren Bacall is absolutely great. James Stewart joins them adding to that immense depth. This is a great nostalgic journey. I would have liked it to be much darker in tone and more action. It does take a look at the act of dying. The search for peace and resignation at the end of this gunslinger's life is very compelling.