The Searchers "That'll Be The Day"

One of the reasons that I have really enjoyed Netflix is because I get to have access to all these classic movies that otherwise would cost way too much money to see. Now I had heard all about John Wayne and seen hi on The Great Movie Ride but never had I seen him in action. So this movie had a lot of expectations and it certainly did not disappoint.


The Searchers stars John Wayne as Ethan Edwards, a Civil War veteran returning home to his family. Soon though a group of Indians come and slaughter Edwards' family and kidnaps two of the daughters. Edwards, along with Martin Pawley (Jeffery Hunter), goes on a journey to find the Indians and save the girl over the span of 5 years.

The Searchers asks a lot of great questions and leaves the audience to answer them. John Ford, the director, does a fantastic job of not siding too much on one side. At first you might feel as through he is portraying Edwards as a hero and that their genocide mission is acceptable. Then you step back for a second and think about Edwards' blatant racism and the unnecessary violence he commits. Scar's sons being killed by white men also changes your views on his actions and causes you to sympathize with him. I think it was great to cast John Wayne as the lead because audiences were used to seeing him as the American cowboy hero. It reminds me of casting Henry Fonda in Once Upon A Time In The West.

The point of The Searchers is that there is no right answer. Both parties, the Americans and the Indians, had faults and judgements against one another. Both made horrible acts of violence against each other in a never ending circle until they wipe each other out. When watching you must ask yourself if you think one party is justified or if both are wrong. It is also interesting to see who you are rooting for especially in the 21st century mentality.

Another important to The Searchers is the sheer beauty of it all. There are some amazing landscapes that are used wonderfully by Ford. Not only was Ford good at the landscapes, but the action sequences were pretty damn impressive. The final shootout between the Indians and the Rangers is fluid and makes the audience feel as if there are right in the middle of the action. And lastly the last shot of the film is iconic. Its beautiful and explains the feelings of the whole film. As friends rush inside to celebrate, Edwards walks out back into the unknown valley in reflection on whats happened.

John Wayne does a pretty phenomenal job as Edwards and performs exactly as these film needed. He isn't kind about who he is and he sure doesn't hide it. The supporting cast as well were able to keep up with Wayne and never miss a beat.

Another important thing to remember about The Searchers is its impact on cinema. It has influenced Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia, Taxi Driver, Who's That Knocking At My Door, and Saving Private Ryan. 

So why I did enjoy this film and highly respect it, for some this may not be their cup of tea. Still, this is a great important film that is recognized by critics and film goers for years. Make sure to check this movie out especially for Western fans. Its iconic, its classic, its Wayne. 4.5 out of 5 stars.