Perhaps I am missing something, but I am struggling to see why filmmakers like John Carpenter and Quentin Tarantino fell in love with this film. Don't get me wrong. It's not a bad film by any means. I would even argue it's quite a good one.
But one that I would watch over and over again? I don't think so. For that, it is lacking the components John Carpenters himself did incorporate in films like Assault on Precinct 13 and Ghosts of Mars. And he has made it very clear that he has been remaking Rio Bravo over and over again. He himself explains that he liked how director Howard Hawks had this drive of creating groups of people who had to survive. I understand the appeal, but in Rio Bravo, it's not presented as that tense and thrilling as it could have been. For that, the film is too slow. There is not enough happening to put you on the edge of the seat.
I am well aware that I have been spoilt. That I have grown up with films like The Wild Bunch and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. These are masterpieces that never get old. Sure, I liked the built-up of the camaraderie and the dynamics between the essential characters. You get to know them somewhat, and that is what makes you root for them. Although, the film misses its mark with the villains. They are present, but real threatening? It rarely felt like they were a force not to be messed with. Yet, you are constantly told that Nathan Burdette and his gang of thugs are dangerous. They certainly do some stuff. But because of the pacing, I didn't really experience a sense of urgency. Actually, if you think about it, Sherrif Chance (John Wayne), Deputy Dude (Dean Martin), Colorado Ryan (Ricky Nelson) and Stumpy (Walter Brennan) very easily could have fled the town with some trickery. Yet they never even attempt.
If they had attempted but failed, then immediately if you had demonstrated to the audience that the group of killers is highly dangerous.
If it weren't for the stars, this film would not have done so well. Dean Martin alone makes it worth your while. So in that regard, Rio Bravo certainly gives you bang for buck. For the moment, this is all I will say about this.
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