Johnny Guitar facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Johnny Guitar |
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Original theatrical poster
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| Directed by | Nicholas Ray |
| Produced by | Herbert J. Yates |
| Written by | Ben Maddow, credited to Philip Yordan Roy Chanslor (novel) |
| Starring | Joan Crawford Sterling Hayden Mercedes McCambridge Scott Brady |
| Music by | Peggy Lee Victor Young |
| Cinematography | Harry Stradling Sr. |
| Editing by | Richard L. Van Enger |
| Studio | Republic Pictures |
| Distributed by | RKO Radio Pictures |
| Release date(s) | May 27, 1954 |
| Running time | 110 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
Johnny Guitar is a classic 1954 Western movie. It was directed by Nicholas Ray. The film stars famous actors like Joan Crawford and Sterling Hayden. When it first came out, people had different opinions about it. However, over time, it became very well-known. It was even chosen to be kept safe in the United States National Film Registry. This means it is considered an important part of American film history.
About Johnny Guitar
Johnny Guitar is not like many other Westerns from its time. It tells a story with strong female characters. The movie mixes action with deep feelings and ideas. It was filmed using a special color process called Trucolor. This gave the movie a unique and vivid look.
The Story of the Film
The movie is set in the American Old West. It focuses on a tough woman named Vienna. She owns a saloon and a gambling hall. Vienna is building a railroad through her land. This makes some local ranchers very angry. They are led by a powerful woman named Emma Small. Emma believes Vienna is involved in a recent stagecoach robbery.
Vienna's old flame, Johnny Guitar, arrives in town. He is a famous gunfighter who now wants to play the guitar. He tries to help Vienna against her enemies. The story shows the conflict between Vienna and Emma. It also explores themes of revenge, power, and love. The movie has many exciting gunfights and dramatic moments.
Main Characters
- Vienna (played by Joan Crawford): She is a strong and independent woman. Vienna owns a saloon and is not afraid to stand up for herself. She challenges the usual ideas of women in Western movies.
- Johnny Guitar (played by Sterling Hayden): He is a former gunfighter. Johnny comes back into Vienna's life. He tries to protect her from the dangers around them.
- Emma Small (played by Mercedes McCambridge): She is a powerful rancher. Emma is Vienna's main enemy. She believes Vienna is a bad influence on the town.
- The Dancin' Kid (played by Scott Brady): He is a local outlaw. The Kid is also involved in the conflicts of the town.
Why It's Special
Johnny Guitar is often called a "revisionist Western". This means it changes the typical rules of Western movies. It gives more power to its female characters. It also explores complex emotions. The film's unique style and story have made it a favorite among film fans. It has even inspired a stage musical.
Cast
- Joan Crawford as Vienna
- Sterling Hayden as Johnny Guitar/Johnny Logan
- Mercedes McCambridge as Emma Small
- Scott Brady as The Dancin' Kid
- Ward Bond as John McIvers
- Ben Cooper as Turkey Ralston
- Ernest Borgnine as Bart Lonergan
- John Carradine as Old Tom
- Royal Dano as Corey
- Frank Ferguson as Marshal Williams
- Paul Fix as Eddie
- Rhys Williams as Mr. Andrews
- Ian MacDonald as Pete
See also
In Spanish: Johnny Guitar para niños
