At the start of True Grit, a teenage girl outsmarts a group of adults in a horse-trading scene. This moment is clever and sharp, quickly showing us who Mattie Ross is. She stands out as one of the most memorable Western heroines in recent years.

The Coen brothers’ take on True Grit isn’t just a remake of the 1969 John Wayne movie. They return to the spirit of Portis’s novel. The film feels confident, is funny without going too far, moving without being sappy, and exciting without relying on flashy effects.

Hailee Steinfeld’s performance as Mattie is at the heart of the film. In her breakout role, she brings a confidence and presence that many older actors would admire. Mattie isn’t just a clever kid or a modern character dropped into the past. She’s smart, strong-willed, and completely believable. Steinfeld gives the movie its heart and strength.

Jeff Bridges takes on the role of Rooster Cogburn, a part made famous by John Wayne. Rather than imitate Wayne, Bridges makes Cogburn rougher, more worn out, and a bit wilder. He’s a one-eyed US Marshal who gets results and enjoys his whisky. Bridges reveals the character’s softer side as the story goes on.

Matt Damon shines as the proud Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, bringing just enough humour to the part. The three main actors work really well together, and their scenes are filled with quick, clever lines, many taken straight from Portis’s original writing.

True Grit looks stunning. Cinematographer Roger Deakins turns the Arkansas and New Mexico scenery into a place at once beautiful and threatening. The cold frontier feels truly dangerous, where danger can come quickly from a gun or a snake. Every shot looks like an old photograph brought to life.

What makes the film more than just a well-made Western is its emotional depth. Underneath the action and chase scenes is a story about loss, resilience, and what justice really costs. The Coens always remember Mattie’s grief and never make the violence in her journey seem glamorous.

One small flaw is that the last part of the film sometimes moves too quickly and could use a little more time for some moments to sink in. Still, this is a minor issue in a movie that’s so well made.

True Grit stands out as one of the best Westerns of this century. It’s a thrilling adventure with memorable characters and proves that courage can show up in unexpected ways. Like Mattie, the film really earns its title.

Similar films:

• The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
• 3:10 to Yuma (2007)
• No Country for Old Men (2007)

IMDB