John Wayne Movies

Having made approximately 200 movies in his lifetime, there is certainly no shortage of John Wayne movies. Wayne, known as the Duke, is a beloved American movie icon who received both the Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Wayne is best known for his Westerns and war movies.

Stagecoach, released in 1939, is essential in any collection of John Wayne movies. This iconic Western set the stage for other films in the genre regarding setting, storylines, and characters. Filmed in Monument Valley, the film presented the vast beauty of the American West. Stagecoach was the first film where Wayne worked with director John Ford, and it was the beginning of a long and successful partnership. Wayne played the role of the Ringo Kid, and this role initiated the actor into his new role of a Hollywood celebrity. Stagecoach received Academy Award nominations for Best Picture, Best Directing, Best Art Direction, Best Black and White Cinematography, and Best Film Editing. Additionally, the American Film Institute included Stagecoach as one of the ten best classic American films.

Wayne's filmography also includes a variety of World War II movies. Among these, Sands of Iwo Jima, directed by Allan Dwan, may be one of the best known John Wayne movies. This movie was released in 1949 and takes place during World War II. The plot centers around the journey of some enlisted United States Marines. Wayne plays John Stryker, a Marine Sergeant who is initially disliked by his unit. However, the other Marines, as well as the audience, soon discover that Stryker is a complex and compassionate man who does his job well. Sand of Iwo Jima was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Film Editing, Best Sound Recording, and Best Motion Picture Story.

John Wayne movies are definitely a piece of American cultural history. The man himself became a national icon, and he helped Hollywood grow into a booming entertainment industry. Wayne's place in American history will never be forgotten. To discuss this American actor and many others, visit the ClassicMoviesAndRadio forum.