The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962) Review in 2025
A classic western drama about a young lawyer who arrives in a small town and becomes embroiled in a conflict with a notorious outlaw.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its violent content and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of westerns and classic cinema, and is best enjoyed in theaters for its full impact.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Ransom Stoddard, a young lawyer who arrives in the small town of Shinbone, where he becomes embroiled in a conflict with the notorious outlaw Liberty Valance. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Liberty is a ruthless and cunning man who will stop at nothing to get what he wants, and Ransom must use all his wits and courage to outsmart him and bring him to justice.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative that explores themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of human nature.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with John Wayne and James Stewart delivering standout performances.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Ransom Stoddard being a particularly memorable and relatable protagonist.
direction9.00/10
John Ford's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the western genre.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the American West and a keen use of lighting and composition.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's engaging story, well-developed characters, and masterful direction make it a standout classic of the western genre.
Cons
The movie's violence and mature themes may not be suitable for all audiences.
Notable Quotes
"'This is the West, sir. When the snow is on the ground and the cattle are in the barn, that's the time to be in the West.'"
"'When the legend becomes fact, print the legend.'"
