I watched the original True Grit this afternoon to see how it compares with the Coen Brothers’ terrific new adaptation.
In the entertaining John Wayne version, Glen Campbell puts in a thankfully rare big screen appearance as La Boeuf, the irritating Texas Ranger that Matt Damon plays much better in the new film.
In my experience most Westerns from the 50s and 60s have songs that play over the opening titles and set up the story about to unfold. True Grit is no exception and part of Glen’s contract evidently indulged him to sing this enjoyably cheeseball tune.
Glen Campbell performs True Grit on the Johnny Cash Show
Both versions of True Grit are well worth your time. Having heard the Glen Campbell song I am now disappointed that Jeff Bridges doesn’t sing it over the end credits of the new one. You’d have thought after the success of Crazy Heart he’d have loved adding some world-weariness to the song. Don’t you think?
Related Links
True Grit – official site for Coen Bros film. Lots of great clips.
Jeff Bridges – the actor’s own site is a thing of beauty
