More Focus on Mattie Than Rooster in Coens’ “True Grit”

When you think about the 1969 western “True Grit,” the first thought that probably comes to mind is John Wayne’s towering presence in the role of U.S. Marshall Rooster Cogburn.  Even though the movie is an adaptation of the novel True Grit, which focuses on 14-year-old Mattie Ross, Wayne’s appearance overshadowed the book’s original story.    Wayne’s performance in the role of Rooster Cogburn earned him an Oscar for Best Actor, further cementing the character’s iconic status.  Not surprisingly, it also led to a second film featuring the him in 1975, titled “Rooster Cogburn.” 

In their own adaptation of True Grit, the Coen Brothers stick closer to the novel, putting more focus on Mattie than on Rooster.  Despite the switch in concentration, the Coens’ version is still captivating.    The very talented Jeff Bridges fills the boots of Rooster Cogburn, rendering the cantankerous U.S. Marshall with the greatest of ease.  He skillfully adds humor and personality to the film without demanding all the attention.

For those unfamiliar, “True Grit” follows a strong-willed teenager named Mattie Ross (Hailee Steinfeld), whose father has been murdered by the outlaw Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin).  Mattie believes the authorities will do little to capture and punish Chaney, so she hires the rough and tumble U.S. Marshall Rooster Cogburn to track him down.  Determined to keep an eye on her investment, she petitions Cogburn to join his hunt, to which he reluctantly agrees.  Once they set out on their journey though, the pair meets a Texas Ranger named LaBoeuf (Matt Damon), who is also chasing Chaney for the crime of murder.  They decide to pool the resources and so begins an uneasy partnership between the three.

The headstrong LaBoeuf is an excellent foil for the crotchety Cogburn.  LaBoeuf’s penchant for flapping his gums with idle chit-chat annoys Cogburn, who is a man of fewer words.  Their clashing personalities create humorous moments in the film, and complicate their relationship with Mattie.  Since they are much older and more experienced the two develop a paternalistic instinct, leading them to set aside their differences so that they can protect Mattie when she’s in trouble.

Steinfeld is impressive as the quick-tongued Mattie, a shrewd businesswoman who is wise and tough beyond her years.  She’s always examining the financial angles of every transaction, and she’s never afraid to speak her mind, even if it means insulting an adult.  Mattie Ross in the Coens’ “True Grit” is a strong female protagonist, that serves as a shining example for other current Hollywood films that lack well-developed female characters .

Normally remakes can be agitating for audiences, since they rarely bring new and entertaining elements to a story, however the Coens serve as excellent role models with their “True Grit.”  The Coen brothers craft a true western that feels as dirty and dusty as the time period it’s set in.  They fill the lens with panoramic landscapes and wide shots of the characters on horseback like you’d expect.  What’s unique about the film though is its shift in focus back to Mattie, and the Coens’ trademark dark sense of humor that is present in its dialogue.   Lines like Cogburn’s “Them men wanted a decent burial, they should have gotten themselves killed in summer,” will elicit a guilty chuckle.

My Grade: A