Red River is a 1948 film directed by Howard Hawks and Arthur Rosson. This is an epic and dramatic Western that features one of John Wayne's most memorable performances. 

Plot

The film is set after the American Civil War and follows Captain Thomas Dunson (played by John Wayne) and his right-hand man, Groot Nadine (played by Walter Brennan). Dunson has an ambitious dream: to drive a herd of thousands of cattle through the perilous Texas territory to Abilene, where he can sell them for a high price.

However, his authoritarian character and uncompromising nature lead to conflicts with members of his group, including the young adopted son Matthew Garth (played by Montgomery Clift). After a series of dramatic events, Dunson and Garth become rivals, and their conflict reaches epic proportions.

The story follows the long and perilous cattle drive through the desert and mountains, with encounters with Native Americans and other threats along the way. The film explores themes of leadership, courage, betrayal, and redemption.

"Red River" is known for John Wayne's powerful performance and his epic confrontation with Montgomery Clift. The film offers a deep exploration of characters and a compelling narrative that makes it a classic in the Western genre.

Complete Cast:

• John Wayne as Thomas Dunson
• Montgomery Clift as Matthew Garth
• Joanne Dru as Tess Millay
• Walter Brennan as Groot Nadine
• Coleen Gray as Fen
• Harry Carey as Mr. Melville
• John Ireland as Cherry Valance
• Noah Beery Jr. as Buster McGee
• Harry Carey Jr. as Dan Latimer

Director: Howard Hawks

Producer: Howard Hawks, Charles Schnee

Writer: Borden Chase, Charles Schnee (based on the novel "Blazing Guns on the Chisholm Trail" by Borden Chase)

Music by: Dimitri Tiomkin

Cinematographer: Russell Harlan

Production Cost: Not publicly disclosed.

Box Office: Not publicly disclosed, but considered a commercial and critical success.

Awards: It did not win major awards but was nominated for two Oscars.

Critics' Reception

 Red River is considered one of the greatest western films of all time and a landmark in the genre. It was praised for its epic storytelling, performances, particularly those of John Wayne and Montgomery Clift, and Howard Hawks' direction. The film is noted for its influence on the western genre and for introducing a darker, more psychological tone.