Opened: August 20, 1976

Directed by: Don Siegel

Starring: John Wayne, Lauren Bacall, Ron Howard, James Stewart, Richard Boone, Hugh O’Brian, Bill McKinney, Harry Morgan, John Carradine, Sheree North, Rick Lenz, Scatman Crothers, Gregg Palmer, Alfred Dennis, Dick Winslow, Melody Thomas & Kathleen O’Malley

It feels fitting for John Wayne’s final film role to be an aging shooter looking to die with dignity.

J.B. Books (Wayne) rides into Carson City, Nevada, where it’s confirmed by his old friend Doc Hostetler (James Stewart) that he’s dying from cancer. J.B. takes up residency at a local boarding house run by Bond Rogers (Lauren Bacall) and her son Gillom (Ron Howard).

Wayne is the perfect person to play the role of J.B. He plays it powerful, while allowing glimpses of J.B.’s more vulnerable side shine through. Wayne and Bacall’s characters come toe-to-toe several times and both actors have the strength to take it from the other.

There’s some interesting camera work that feels more documentary-style. While it may be an artistic choice, it ends up looking sloppy.

Final say: A fitting end for both J.B. and Wayne. ★★★★☆