The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
94
metacriticBased on 10 Critics
85
Based on 12 Users

Release Date: July 2nd, 1991

DVD Release Date: June 5th, 2001

Not Yet Rated |2 hr 2 min

Plot Summary

Questions arise when Senator Stoddard (James Stewart) attends the funeral of a local man named Tom Doniphon (John Wayne) in a small Western town. Flashing back, we learn Doniphon saved Stoddard, then a lawyer, when he was roughed up by a crew of outlaws terrorizing the town, led by Liberty Valance (Lee Marvin). As the territory's safety hung in the balance, Doniphon and Stoddard, two of the only people standing up to him, proved to be very important, but different, foes to Valance.

Cast: James Stewart, John Wayne, Vera Miles, Lee Marvin, Edmond O'Brien, Andy Devine, Woody Strode, Jeanette Nolan

Director: John Ford

Genres: Western

Production Co: Paramount Pictures, John Ford Productions

Distributors: CIC-Taft Home Video, Paramount Pictures

Keywords: Gritty , Pursuit , Small town , Engaging , Rousing , Brooding , Love , Rivalry ,

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Ratings & Reviews

  • 100
    Roger EbertChicago Sun-Times

    In a few characters and a gripping story, Ford dramatizes the debate about guns that still continues in many Western states. That he does this by mixing in history, humorous supporting characters and a poignant romance is typical; his films were complete and self-contained in a way that approaches perfection. Without ever seeming to hurry, he doesn't include a single gratuitous shot. show more

  • 100
    James BerardinelliReelViews

    Along with The Searchers, it represents John Ford at his most accomplished. And it is one of the best Westerns Hollywood has ever produced. show more

  • 100
    Marjorie BaumgartenAustin Chronicle

    Arguably, the best John Ford film ever, certainly one the very best, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is an American classic. Ford addresses the complexity of heroism in a poetic manner. show more

See all critic reviews on metacritic.com

Awards

Nominated Costume Design (Black-and-White)
Oscars Academy Awards (1962)