Red River (1948 movie) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red River |
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Theatrical release poster
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| Directed by | Howard Hawks |
| Produced by | Howard Hawks |
| Screenplay by |
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| Starring | |
| Music by | Dimitri Tiomkin |
| Cinematography | Russell Harlan |
| Editing by | Christian Nyby |
| Studio | Monterey Productions |
| Distributed by | United Artists |
| Release date(s) | August 26, 1948 |
| Running time | 133 minutes (Pre-release) 127 minutes (Theatrical) |
| Country | United States |
| Language |
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| Budget | $2.7 million |
| Money made | $4,506,825 (US rentals) |
Red River is a classic western movie that came out in 1948. It was directed and produced by Howard Hawks. The film stars famous actors John Wayne and Montgomery Clift. It tells the exciting story of the very first cattle drive from Texas all the way to Kansas. This journey happened along a famous path called the Chisholm Trail.
Red River is considered a very important movie. Because of its historical and cultural value, the Library of Congress added it to the United States National Film Registry in 1990.
Contents
What is Red River About?
Red River is an adventure story set in the American West. It follows a tough rancher named Thomas Dunson, played by John Wayne. He decides to move his huge herd of cattle from Texas to Missouri. This was a very long and dangerous journey.
The Big Cattle Drive
Dunson starts his ranch in Texas with his adopted son, Matt Garth, played by Montgomery Clift. After the American Civil War, they have many cattle but no easy way to sell them. So, they decide to drive thousands of cattle north. Their goal is to reach a market where they can get a good price.
Challenges on the Trail
The journey is full of challenges. The cowboys face tough weather, river crossings, and even attacks. Dunson is a very strict leader, and his harsh rules cause problems with his crew. His relationship with Matt becomes very tense.
A Story of Family and Loyalty
The movie explores themes of family, loyalty, and leadership. It shows the struggles and dangers faced by cowboys during the early days of cattle drives. It also highlights the strong wills of both Dunson and Matt as they try to achieve their goal.
Main Characters
The film features a talented group of actors who bring the story to life.
- Thomas Dunson (played by John Wayne): He is a strong and determined rancher. He built his cattle empire from nothing.
- Matthew "Matt" Garth (played by Montgomery Clift): Dunson's adopted son. He is brave and thoughtful, often disagreeing with Dunson's harsh methods.
- Nadine Groot (played by Walter Brennan): A loyal and wise cowboy who has been with Dunson for a long time.
- Tess Millay (played by Joanne Dru): A strong woman who meets Matt during the cattle drive.
Why is Red River Important?
Red River is known for its realistic portrayal of a cattle drive. It showed audiences what life was like for cowboys in the 1800s. The movie also has great acting, especially from John Wayne and Montgomery Clift. Their performances helped make the film a classic.
Filming and Legacy
The movie was filmed in beautiful outdoor locations, making the cattle drive look very real. It is still watched and enjoyed today by many people. It is considered one of the greatest western movies ever made.
Images for kids
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Montgomery Clift between filming.
See also
In Spanish: Río Rojo (película) para niños
