John Ford 1962-1972 (The Old Man is Still Alive, Part 3)
Jan 28, 2025
auto_awesome
Delve into the complex legacy of John Ford, a titan of Western cinema. Explore his later works that reflect a shift in perspective, including the revisionist 'Cheyenne Autumn' and the female-centric '7 Women.' Discover how these films attempt to reconcile past misrepresentations of Native Americans. The discussion also highlights Ford's storytelling techniques and the evolving cinematic landscape of the 1960s, prompting a critical reflection on masculinity and historical narratives in American film.
John Ford's career highlights the evolution of the Western genre while often marginalizing Indigenous perspectives in favor of white male narratives.
Films like 'Cheyenne Autumn' reflect Ford's attempts at redemption for past portrayals, yet still struggle with centering Indigenous voices authentically.
Ford's later work in 'Seven Women' challenges traditional gender roles, emphasizing female experiences amidst societal conflicts while facing mixed critical reception.
Deep dives
The Legacy of John Ford in Westerns
John Ford is recognized as a seminal figure in the Western genre, profoundly influencing its evolution and representation. His work spans various themes, from the complexities of male identity and race relations to the romanticized vision of American history. Ford's films, particularly his Westerns like 'Stagecoach' and 'The Searchers,' often featured narratives centered on white male protagonists while sidelining Indigenous perspectives. His collaborations with John Wayne further cemented his legacy, but also drew criticism for perpetuating myths and stereotypes about Native Americans.
Cheyenne Autumn as a Reflection of Ford's Regrets
'Cheyenne Autumn,' often seen as Ford's attempt at redemption for his earlier portrayals of Native Americans, showcases the director's acknowledgement of past mistakes. The film explores themes of displacement and survival, highlighting the voices of Indigenous characters more than his previous works. Yet, its effectiveness is questioned due to the continued presence of white protagonists and a focus on the narrative from their perspective. Critics argue that while the film aspires to be progressive, it ultimately falls short of fully capturing the complexities of Native experiences.
The Duality in Ford's Cinematic Vision
Throughout his career, John Ford grappled with the duality of myth versus reality in American storytelling, particularly in relation to the West. His films often blur the lines between truth and fiction, creating narratives that resonate with audiences while distorting historical accuracy. In 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance,' Ford famously suggests that when the legend becomes fact, print the legend, emphasizing how myths shape public perception. This approach reflects Ford's tension between his artistic expressions and the societal myths surrounding American identity.
Gender Dynamics in Ford's Later Films
In his later works, particularly 'Seven Women,' Ford challenges traditional gender roles by centering female characters in storylines that critique patriarchal structures. The film features a strong female lead amid a backdrop of conflict, showcasing the struggles and complexities of women's lives during a tumultuous era. Ford's portrayal of female relationships and the impacts of war offer a fresh perspective, deviating from his earlier male-centric narratives. However, the film's mixed critical reception indicates ongoing tension in balancing narrative ambitions with audience expectations.
Critical Reception and Enduring Influence
John Ford's films have elicited diverse reactions over the decades, with varying appraisals from critics and audiences alike. While some acknowledge his artistry and contributions to American cinema, others criticize his handling of race and gender issues, suggesting a reluctance to move beyond outdated stereotypes. The complexity of his legacy raises questions about the depiction of marginalized voices in Hollywood. Ford's narratives continue to spark discussions about the relevance of film in shaping cultural understandings of history and identity today.
Born in the 19th century, his career forged in the silent era, John Ford helped to invent the genre of the Western and still holds the record for the most Best Director Oscar wins of all time. Though he made films in all genres, and sometimes even tackled the same historical territory from different angles in different films, Ford had by the 1960s become synonymous with depictions of American history that honored maverick white men, while often villainizing, distorting or erasing Native Americans. In this episode, we will talk about the influence of Ford’s last masterpiece, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, and will look at Ford’s last two films, which to some extent feel like “mea culpas” for the offenses of his earlier career: the revisionist Western Cheyenne Autumn, and the female-centric adventure film 7 Women.