Red River

Main Plot

"Red River" is a classic Western film directed by Howard Hawks and Arthur Rosson, which follows the story of Thomas Dunson, who starts a cattle ranch in Texas. After years of hard work, Dunson faces financial ruin unless he can drive his massive herd of cattle to Missouri, where a lucrative market awaits. He is joined on this perilous journey by his adopted son, Matthew Garth, and a crew of cowboys. As they navigate the treacherous Chisholm Trail, Dunson's tyrannical leadership style begins to cause dissent among the group. Tensions reach a boiling point, leading to a mutiny spearheaded by Matthew. The film explores themes of ambition, rebellion, and the complexities of father-son relationships, set against the backdrop of the American frontier. The journey tests their endurance and morals, leading to a dramatic confrontation that forces both men to reconsider their values and their relationship to each other. "Red River" is renowned for its dramatic narrative, strong performances, and its significant influence on the Western genre.

Characters

• John Wayne plays Tom Dunson, a determined and tough rancher who leads a perilous cattle drive, facing mutiny and challenges that test his leadership and resolve.
• Montgomery Clift plays Matthew Garth, an adopted son who challenges his tyrannical father figure during a perilous cattle drive, ultimately leading to a dramatic confrontation and reconciliation.
• Joanne Dru plays Tess Millay, a strong-willed woman who influences the protagonist's decisions and provides emotional support, impacting the resolution of the central conflict.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of "Red River," directed by Howard Hawks and Arthur Rosson, the central conflict between Tom Dunson (played by John Wayne) and his adopted son, Matthew Garth (played by Montgomery Clift), reaches its climax. Throughout the film, Dunson's tyrannical leadership during a perilous cattle drive causes increasing dissent among his crew, leading Matt to take control of the drive to protect the men from Dunson's harsh treatment. As the drive nears its end in Abilene, Kansas, Dunson, who has been tracking Matt to exact revenge for what he sees as betrayal, finally catches up. The tension culminates in a confrontation where Dunson intends to kill Matt. However, just as they are about to fight, Tess Millay (played by Joanne Dru), who loves Matt, intervenes. She pleads with Dunson, appealing to his sense of family and decency, urging him to see that Matt’s decisions were made for the good of the drive and the men. The film concludes with Dunson realizing his errors, dropping his gun, and reconciling with Matt. The resolution is a restoration of their familial bond, underscored by Dunson's decision to include Matt's name alongside his on the brand, symbolizing his acceptance of Matt as a true partner and successor. This ending emphasizes themes of redemption, the importance of family