The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

While the storyline of The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is a basic western premise, the film is captivating in its simplicity and genius in its execution. It is one worth watching again and again, in any capacity: it's a perfect movie to cheer you up when you're sad, or to help you wallow in your own self-pity. It's a movie you want to share with friends, and also one you would love to watch with only your significant other. The film itself is a classic without being overrated. After the film's brief set-up, the story is told of a bad man named Liberty Valance (Lee Marvin) who attacks the unsuspecting lawyer Ransom Stoddard (James Stewart), leaving him penniless and without dignity. Ransom sets up shop in the small town of Shinbone, where the stage is set for him to steal away the woman that had been claimed by Tom Doniphon (John Wayne.) As the story progresses, it is clear that something must be done about Liberty Valance, who has a thirst for Ransom's good-hearted blood. The film unfolds into a series of suspense-building scenes that climax with a classic shoot-out in the streets of Shinbone. By far, the best part of this movie is the acting. Lee Marvin, as always, is chilling as the eccentric villain who drinks just a bit too much. John Wayne is stoic and masculine, but seems to soften just for the woman of his dreams, Hallie (Vera Miles). These moments are heart-wrenching and bittersweet, the definitive sign of an actor showing some true emotion. James Stewart is charming in his clumsiness. The change in his character from when he first arrives in the town to when he re-visits years later is vast, and proves that Stewart is an acting force to be reckoned with. These talents are supplemented with actors like Edmond O'Brien, Andy DeVine, and John Carradine (amongst others) who brighten the film with their distinctive quirks, and give a bit of comical relief to an otherwise gripping film. Overall, this movie is a joy, and I can tell I'll like it the more it sits with me. It's simple, classic, and captivating. The acting is phenomenal and the story is extremely satisfying. It is bittersweet, yet it leaves room for hope and prosperity. This film isn't just a western; it's a life lesson. Rating: 9.5 out of 10