It is rare when the remake of a classic, almost iconic film from the past is superior to the original but that is exactly what we have when comparing the original True Grit to the Coen Brother’s adaptation — a vastly superior film in almost every respect. Based on the book of the same name, True Grit follows the path of a young girl who seeks vengeance upon her father’s murderer. She hires Roster Cogburn to track down the scoundrel; mayhem and chaos ensue.
Well written, expertly directed, and acted with precision, True Grit easily moves into the top-five westerns I’ve ever watched. The plot is enthralling and filled with rich characters fully immersed in the genre. It is a pleasure to watch on the big screen and I can see myself making this a purchase for my permanent collection — an honor rarely bestowed on any recently released films. Furthermore, True Grit shows the acting talents of Jeff Bridges in a role few will be familiar with: a fat, aging law man who is quick to anger but moves with deliberate and mostly deadly intent. Now I see why there is Oscar talk regarding this role.
True Grit is worth paying a premium price for theater viewing because it is an exceptional piece of American film making. Grand vistas, with a gritty storyline, I strongly recommend this film and would rate is a solid to strong 8 out of 10.