The Greatest Western of the 2010s Is a Remake That Totally Outshines the Original
The Coen brothers’ 2010 adaptation of *True Grit* is presented as a standout modern Western that surpasses the 1969 film starring John Wayne. The article argues that the remake gives Charles Portis’s story stronger performances and a more distinctive tone, making it one of the finest Westerns of recent decades.
Jeff Bridges stars as Marshal Rooster Cogburn, alongside Matt Damon and Hailee Steinfeld in her film debut, with cinematography by Roger Deakins. The article contrasts the remake’s melancholy, dark humour and emotional weight with the original’s less effective pacing and supporting performances; Wayne won his only acting Oscar for the 1969 film.
In short
- The Coens’ 2010 *True Grit* is argued to outshine the 1969 original.
- Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon and Hailee Steinfeld lead the remake.
- Its melancholy tone and performances distinguish it as a modern Western.