The best of John Ford: Five films every movie fan should watch

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When you think of classic Westerns, there's a good chance John Ford's name pops into your mind. This iconic filmmaker, born in 1894, was a master storyteller who shaped the genre into a beautiful tapestry of adventure, complex characters, and breath-taking landscapes. Over his career, Ford directed more than 140 films—yes, you read that right! And he created a unique cinematic universe that has become synonymous with Americana.

Known for his sweeping vistas and compelling narratives, Ford turned the dusty trails of the Wild West into a stage for exploring profound themes of honour, resilience, and the human experience. His collaborations with John Wayne gave us some of the most memorable characters in film history, and they made us laugh, cry, and reflect on what it means to be human. In this article, we rank five of John Ford's most iconic films, from fifth to first. So let's not waste any more time. Gamereactor invites you to explore what we consider to be the best of John Ford.

5. The Quiet Man (1952)

The Quiet Man transports us to the lush green hills of Ireland, where Sean Thornton (played by the ever-charming John Wayne) returns to his homeland after a tumultuous career as a boxer. He's looking for peace, but instead finds himself caught in a whirlwind romance with the fiery Mary Kate Danaher (Maureen O'Hara) and a feud with her brother.

While The Quiet Man might stray from Ford's traditional Westerns, it's a delightful love letter to Irish culture. The film's charm lies in its hilarious yet heartfelt moments as Sean navigates love and family dynamics. It's a story about redemption and the universal quest for belonging. Plus, who can resist the iconic visuals of Ireland? This film reminds us that love is often complicated, but it's worth the fight.

4. The Grapes of Wrath (1940)

Based on John Steinbeck's novel, The Grapes of Wrath follows the Joad family as they leave their Oklahoma farm during the Great Depression, embarking on a treacherous journey to California in search of a better life. And it's not an easy road.

This film packs an emotional punch that resonates even today. Ford masterfully captures the struggles and resilience of everyday people facing overwhelming challenges. Tom Joad (played by the always relatable Henry Fonda) becomes a symbol of hope and determination, embodying the spirit of those fighting for justice and dignity. The film is a heartfelt reminder of the strength of the human spirit, showing how families band together to confront adversity. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll root for this family through thick and thin.

3. Stagecoach (1939)

Buckle up for a wild ride in Stagecoach! This film follows a motley crew of passengers on a stagecoach traveling through Apache territory. Among them are Ringo Kid (John Wayne), a fugitive with a heart of gold, and Dallas (Claire Trevor), a misunderstood woman of the night. Will they survive the journey? Again, it's not an easy road.

Stagecoach revolutionised the Western genre and introduced us to richly developed characters who challenge social norms. As they face threats from both nature and each other, we learn that every passenger has a story worth telling. Ford showcases how individuals from vastly different backgrounds can unite against a common enemy. The film's mix of humour, action, and heartfelt moments makes it a timeless classic.

2. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

This film opens with U.S. Senator Ransom "Ranse" Stoddard (James Stewart) returning to the town of Shinbone for the funeral of his friend, Tom Doniphon (John Wayne). Through flashbacks, we see how Ranse's ideals of law and order collided with the rough reality of the Wild West, particularly when he faces the infamous outlaw Liberty Valance (Lee Marvin).

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance dives deep into the mythology of the West, exploring the blurry lines between legend and reality. The film brilliantly interrogates what it means to be a hero and the sacrifices that come with that title. It's all about the stories we tell ourselves and how they shape our understanding of truth. The quote "When the legend becomes fact, print the legend" captures the film's essence perfectly. Ford invites us to question the stories that define our history and our lives. Plus, who doesn't love a good flashback story?

1. The Searchers (1956)

Hold onto your hats for The Searchers! John Wayne stars as Ethan Edwards, a Civil War veteran who spends years searching for his niece Debbie (Natalie Wood) after she's kidnapped by Comanche raiders. Alongside his half-Cherokee nephew Martin (Jeffrey Hunter), Ethan's quest becomes a journey into his own troubled soul.

Considered one of Ford's crowning achievements (and the jewel in the crown for us, of course), The Searchers is a rich, complex film that tackles themes of obsession, revenge, and the consequences of hatred. Ethan is not your typical hero—he's deeply flawed and often driven by vengeance. This film exposes the dark side of the American West, showcasing the brutal reality behind the myths. The stunning landscapes mirror Ethan's internal turmoil, and the film's iconic ending leaves us pondering the cost of vengeance. It's a powerful meditation on the human experience, and it might just change the way you see the Western genre forever.

So there you have it!—our personal top five John Ford films. In fact, John Ford didn't just direct films; he crafted legends that continue to influence cinema today. His ability to weave together stunning visuals with deeply human stories makes his work timeless. From the complexities of love and loss in The Quiet Man to the haunting moral questions posed in The Searchers, Ford's films resonate with us on multiple levels. Whether you're a die-hard Western fan or new to Ford's work, there's something in his films that speaks to all of us. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be transported to a world where the dust of the frontier meets the depth of the human spirit. Happy watching!

Now we would love to hear about your experiences with John Ford's work! Which of his films do you consider the best? Would you rearrange the list or add any others? We can't wait to see your picks in the comments!