Coming from the Cohen brothers (Joel and Ethan), True Grit is a very good western. It is based upon the 1968 Charles Portis novel of the same name, the 2010 film version is a humorous, violent and inviting film. Hailee Steinfeld stars as Mattie Ross, with Jeff Bridges as U.S. Marshal 'Rooster' Cogburn.
We are introduced to the film by the narration of Mattie Ross (narrated by Elizabeth Marvel in an adult voice), played by the 14 year old Steinfeld. Ross informs us that her father was murdered by the notorious Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin), and that she is out to seek revenge and catch Chaney. She is forced to look for somebody to assist her and is guided to the U.S. Marshal, 'Rooster' Cogburn (Bridges), as the most merciless of her options. Ross also meets Texas Ranger LeBoeuf (Matt Damon), who has been after Chaney and proposes teaming up with Cogburn to help out. After much pleading and work by Ross, Cogburn finally agrees to help out, and the three set off together. They battle the terrain, Chaney's gang, led by 'Lucky' Ned Pepper (Barry Pepper), and themselves as Ross is keen to gain vengeance.
The film is a winner, with an extremely impressive performance by newcomer Hailee Steinfeld, backed up by Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon. The acting is fantastic, and the direction and writing from the Cohen brothers is crisp. Combined with some classic cinematography, True Grit will capture the viewer and use you well. The particular use of humour within the film is a raging success, and balances out the sombre task at hand for the protagonists.
Four out of Five.
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