Red River, released in 1948, stands as a testament to the Golden Age of Westerns and represents one of the most significant collaborations in the career of iconic actor John Wayne. During the period from the 1940s to the 1960s, Westerns achieved remarkable popularity and acclaim, and Wayne’s portrayal of the rugged rancher Thomas Dunson is a notable example. In the film, Dunson embarks on a challenging journey driving a herd of cattle from Texas to Kansas. However, as the story unfolds, his relentless ambition transforms him from a respected leader into a domineering figure, showcasing a darker and more complex facet of Wayne’s acting, which was atypical for him.
Wayne, known for his consistent portrayal of stoic and morally upright characters, often found himself typecast due to his preference for similar roles. His frequent collaborations with the same actors not only created memorable cinematic moments but also solidified strong professional relationships. One such collaborator was Paul Fix, an accomplished character actor who appeared alongside Wayne in 26 films, contributing significantly to their collective body of work.
The Pinnacle of John Wayne and Paul Fix’s Collaboration: Red River
Paul Fix’s Impactful Role in Red River
Regarded as their finest collaboration, Red River diverges from traditional Westerns by introducing multifaceted characters instead of clear-cut heroes and villains. The film enables Wayne to exhibit his dramatic range, leading director John Ford to express surprise over Wayne’s performance depth. In a noteworthy turn, Fix portrays Teeler Yacey, a cattleman who traditionally stands up to Dunson, earning praise for his compelling presence even in a minor role.
Moreover, the film features Montgomery Clift in his debut role as Matt Garth, the young survivor of a tragic wagon incident who becomes Dunson’s mentor. Their evolving relationship becomes a focal point of the storyline, shifting the narrative to a coming-of-age theme rather than solely celebrating Wayne’s stature as a leading man. Although Fix’s screen time was limited, his performance brought a layer of emotional richness to the overall narrative.
Paul Fix: The Unsung Hero of John Wayne Films
Notable John Wayne Films with Perfect Ratings on Rotten Tomatoes
In Red River, Wayne defied his usual heroic persona, allowing his performance to resonate even more with audiences. The film exemplifies how supporting actors can make a lasting impact, and Paul Fix was exceptional at embodying smaller character roles, appearing in over 100 films and television shows throughout his prolific career. His most prominent role alongside Wayne was in the 1935 classic, The Desert Trail.
The legacy of John Wayne’s films is firmly established on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, where 11 of his works have achieved a rare 100% approval rating from critics. Among these acclaimed films are three notable collaborations with Paul Fix. These include the 1944 war drama The Fighting Seabees, followed by the two Westerns: Red River and The Sons of Katie Elder, which premiered in 1961, featuring Fix as Sheriff Billy Wilson. While Red River marked a pivotal moment in Wayne’s career, it also underscored Fix’s essential contributions to cinematic history.