7 Essential John Wayne Films to Celebrate The Duke's Birthday

On May 26, 1907 a future film legend was born when Marion Morrison was welcomed into the world.  Morrison would change his name to John Wayne and go on to become, without question, the biggest western cinematic icon of all time.  Celebrate The Duke's birthday by watching any of these essential greats...

The Searchers
1956


Director: John Ford


My personal favorite.  Wayne plays Ethan Edwards, an obviously anti-Indian Civil War veteran that dedicates years of his life to hunt down the pack of Indians that killed his family and abducted his young niece.  But are his priorities in order?

Stagecoach
1939


Director: John Ford


Wayne stars as The Ringo Kid, protecting a group of travelers on a stagecoach from the threat of Geronimo.

Rio Bravo
1959


Director:  Howard Hawks


Wayne stars as a small town sheriff who needs to hold the fort and keep some outlaws from breaking one of their own out of jail until the US Marshalls arrive.  He enlists the help of a drunk, a kid and a cripple as his deputies.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
1962


Director:  John Ford


A senator builds his reputation on killing a notorious outlaw, but what is the real story behind the death of Liberty Valance?

True Grit
1969


Director:  Henry Hathaway


A rowdy US Marshall and a Texas Ranger team up with a stubborn 13-year old girl to hunt down the man who killed her father.

The Quiet Man
1952


Director:  John Ford


A huge departure from his westerns, Wayne plays a retired American boxer who moves to Ireland to start a new life and eventually find love.




The Shootist
1976


Director:  Don Siegel


Wayne's last film, but probably the most poignant as he plays a dying gunfighter, trying to ensure his final days end with dignity.