‘The Cowboys’: Why This John Wayne Western is One of the Most Accurate Portrayals of the Wild West

The Western genre thrives on legend and myth, with John Ford’s classic ‘The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance’ famously declaring, “When the legend becomes fact, print the legend.” If John Wayne epitomizes the legend-making aspect of Westerns, his films often balance between myth and reality. 

Although Wayne’s portrayals of rugged cowboys and lawmen are celebrated, they sometimes lean towards fantasy, shaped by his strong nationalist views. However, ‘The Cowboys’ stands out as one of Wayne’s most authentic depictions of the Wild West.

In his late 60s, Wayne continued to be a significant star, despite the rise of New Hollywood. During this period, he appeared in Westerns and war films, including ‘The Green Beret’, ‘True Grit’, and ‘Big Jake’. ‘The Cowboys’, directed by Mark Rydell, is notable as one of his last major Westerns.

Image Courtesy: Collider

The film features Wayne as Wil Andersen, a rancher who recruits local schoolboys to help drive his cattle to market, facing various challenges along the way. This plot element, involving young boys rather than seasoned cowboys, adds a layer of realism to the film.

While  ‘The Cowboys’ received mixed reviews upon its 1972 release, overshadowed by films like ‘The Godfather’ and ‘Cabaret’, it is now recognized for its authentic portrayal of Western life. Michael Grauer, an Old West historian, praises the film for its realistic depiction of cowboys’ experiences, countering the exaggerated myths often seen in Westerns. Grauer highlights that the film avoids glamorized gunfights, focusing instead on the gritty, blue-collar aspects of ranch life. 

Image Courtesy: Rotten Tomatoes

Despite critiques of its dated feel,  ‘The Cowboys’ remains a significant entry in Wayne’s filmography. Wayne himself regarded the film as one of his greatest experiences, embodying the passing of the torch to a new generation. 

This authentic portrayal of Western life, combined with Wayne’s poignant performance, ensures that  ‘The Cowboys’ holds a special place in the history of Western cinema.

–Farheen Ali