WAGON MASTER

This low-key Western from 1950 was a personal favourite of the director John Ford, and it’s easy to see why, because (perhaps more than any other of his films) it showcases a community front and centre, without the distraction of star names or plot complications.

The community in question is a group of Mormons travelling across inhospitable terrain, who also have to deal with an outlaw gang who attach themselves to their wagon train.  Although the story is simple enough the main characters are established with economy and prove to be engaging company for the journey.

Several members of the ‘John Ford stock company’ get a chance to shine: Ward Bond as the Mormon leader with a short fuse; Ben Johnson as the pragmatic and good-natured ’wagon master’; Joanne Dru as the object of his affections, as well as Harry Carey Jr., Jane Darwell and Hank Worden.

Together they give a fine display of ensemble acting, appropriate for a film which extols the virtues of community, virtues that are emphasised through the use of songs, hymns and dances throughout.

The other striking feature of this film is the stunning quality of the visual compositions which makes the film a feast for the eyes.

This combination of music and imagery has led some critics to describe this film as a poem. Check it out for yourself and see if you agree.

RATING: ✓ If You've Nothing Better To Do