McLintock! Edition

McLintock! is a classic 1963 western film directed by Andrew V. McLaglen and produced by Michael Wayne, starring an ensemble cast headed by Hollywood titan John Wayne, along with Maureen O'Hara, Patrick Wayne (John Wayne’s real-life son), Stefanie Powers, and Jerry Van Dyke. This was a major box office hit on release, cementing John Wayne's standing as a true Hollywood great, while showcasing his talent for light comedy and romantic banter along with his more recognized demeanor of rough, tough bravery.

The film spins an engaging tale set in the Old West that combines comedy with romance and action to create a cinematic experience that is truly timeless. This restored edition of McLintock! offers a polished and fresh viewing experience, improving aspects like image quality, sound, and capturing lush Arizona landscapes in their stunning widescreen majesty.

McLintock! is the story of George Washington McLintock, portrayed by John Wayne, a wealthy and influential cattle baron living in the fictitious territorial town of McLintock. He is respected, although not always liked by everyone, and feared by those who dare cross him - exemplifying Wayne's reputation for playing no-nonsense, rugged characters. After a two-year separation, McLintock's headstrong wife Katherine, played by Maureen O'Hara, comes back to town intent on a divorce. However, the reunion sparks off a series of comical and enthralling events as the husky cattle baron tries to tame his fiesty, independent wife.

McLintock's stubbornness and Katherine's fiery spirit, when juxtaposed, add a unique charm to this glamorous western epic. Their chemistry, full of witty repartees and comedic quarrels, steals the limelight and becomes a bedrock around which the various subplots weave. Adding to the mix are Patrick Wayne, playing McLintock's grown-up son Devlin Warren, and Stefanie Powers portraying a young schoolteacher hired by the wealthy rancher, who also becomes the love interest of Devlin.

Jerry Van Dyke plays Junior Douglas, a somewhat dimwitted character, who is supposed to marry McLintock's daughter Becky, portrayed by Stefanie Powers. His comedic antics provide many of the film's laughs and lighten up the overall atmosphere of the movie.

McLintock! is also deeply rooted in the socio-political issues of its time. It invokes commentary on numerous themes from gender roles and the changing status of women, evident from Katherine's bid for independence, to the rights and treatment of Native Americans. The subplot involving the government's mistreatment of a local Native American tribe, primarily the Comanche, and McLintock's stand on their rights, provides the film with a depth beyond the comedic antics and familial disputes.

The film is based on William Shakespeare's play "The Taming of the Shrew," and the director's adaptation of the story to a Western setting is truly commendable. The film manages to hit the right balance between lightheartedness while handling serious issues, making it an enjoyable watch.

McLintock! doesn't shy away from using slapstick humor and chase sequences, which contribute to its overall charm. These high-octane chases, punctuated by action-packed scenes, amplify the film's entertainment quotient. In particular, one climactic chase involving most of the film's characters is still fondly remembered by audiences and critics alike.

John Wayne, in his signature charismatic style, delivers a memorable performance, whilst Maureen O’Hara skillfully matches his on-screen presence with her infectious energy and spirit, making their conflicting relationship an absolute delight to watch. The supporting performances from Patrick Wayne, Stefanie Powers, and Jerry Van Dyke further amplify the impact of this comic western, contributing to its status as a classic.

In conclusion, McLintock! presents the archetype of a Western comedy in its best form. The mix of humor, romance, action and the profound commentary on social issues of its time, all set against the impeccably restored vivid backdrop of the American West, makes the film a timeless cinema classic. The film McLintock! celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the value of family bonds, amidst a roller coaster ride of laughter, feuds, and exciting Western thrills.