The Most Popular John Wayne Movie, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the movie you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 2, 2024 06:41
John Wayne's cinematic legacy continues to captivate audiences, tracing back to the golden era of Hollywood. His portrayal of rugged, commanding characters has cemented him as an emblematic figure in classic American film. However, among his numerous appearances, fans often debate which performance stands as his definitive best.
By participating in voting for your preferred John Wayne movie, you help create a collective, definitive ranking, reflecting the opinions of viewers from all over. This dynamic ranking isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about reviving discussions, enhancing appreciation, and possibly introducing newcomers to standout films in John Wayne’s illustrious career.
What Is the Most Popular John Wayne Movie?
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158votes
The Searchers (1956)
Directed by John FordConsidered by many to be John Wayne's greatest film, The Searchers is a classic Western that explores themes of revenge and redemption. It has become a cultural touchstone and continues to be celebrated for its stunning cinematography, memorable performances, and complex storytelling.The Searchers (1956) is an American Western film directed by John Ford. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential movies of all time. The film follows Ethan Edwards (played by John Wayne), a Civil War veteran who embarks on a five-year mission to find his niece who was abducted by Comanche Indians.- Release Year: 1956
- Genre: Western
- Runtime: 119 minutes
- Starring: John Wayne, Jeffrey Hunter, Natalie Wood
- Screenplay by: Frank S. Nugent
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215votesThis John Ford-directed film is widely regarded as the film that made John Wayne a star. In it, he plays the role of Ringo Kid, a cowboy and outlaw who is traveling on a stagecoach with a group of strangers. The film is known for its impressive ensemble cast, action-packed plot, and beautiful scenery.Stagecoach (1939) is a classic Western film directed by John Ford. It follows a group of diverse passengers who are forced to travel together on a dangerous stagecoach journey through Apache territory.
- Genre: Western
- Release Year: 1939
- Director: John Ford
- Running Time: 96 minutes
- Starring: John Wayne, Claire Trevor, Andy Devine
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319votes
Machete kills · CC BY-SA 4.0True Grit (1969)
Directed by Henry HathawayIn this classic Western, John Wayne plays the role of Rooster Cogburn, a tough and grizzled U.S. marshal who is tasked with tracking down a bandit who killed a young girl's father. Wayne's performance earned him an Academy Award, and the film has since become a beloved classic.True Grit is a 1969 American western film directed by Henry Hathaway and based on Charles Portis' 1968 novel of the same name. The film follows a tough lawman, Rooster Cogburn, as he helps a young girl seek justice for her father's murder in the Wild West. True Grit is known for its iconic portrayal of the Old West and was one of John Wayne's most popular and beloved movies.- Release date: June 11, 1969
- Running time: 128 minutes
- Genre: Western
- Starring: John Wayne, Kim Darby, Glen Campbell
- Production company: Hal Wallis Productions
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420votes
Andreas F. Borchert · CC BY-SA 4.0Rio Bravo (1959)
Howard HawksDirected by Howard Hawks, Rio Bravo is a classic Western that features John Wayne as a sheriff who must protect his town from a group of outlaws. The film is known for its sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and thrilling action sequences.Rio Bravo (1959) is a classic Western film directed by Howard Hawks and starring John Wayne. Set in the Old West, the story revolves around a small town sheriff, played by Wayne, who must defend his town against a powerful rancher and his gang.- Release Year: 1959
- Genre: Western
- Director: Howard Hawks
- Lead Actor: John Wayne
- Supporting Cast: Dean Martin, Ricky Nelson, Angie Dickinson
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517votesThis classic Western is known for its memorable cast, including John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart, and Lee Marvin. The film explores themes of mythmaking and the American West, and is widely regarded as one of the best films of its era.The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is a Western film released in 1962. It tells the story of a senator, Ransom Stoddard, who returns to the town of Shinbone for the funeral of his old friend Tom Doniphon. Stoddard reflects on his past with Doniphon and the notorious outlaw Liberty Valance, whom Stoddard claims to have killed. The film explores themes of law and justice, the transition from the Wild West to civilization, and the power of myth and legend.
- Release Date: April 22, 1962 (USA)
- Genre: Western
- Runtime: 123 Minutes
- Starring: John Wayne, James Stewart, Vera Miles, Lee Marvin
- Cinematography: William H. Clothier
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65votes
Henley Quadling · CC BY-SA 3.0Red River (1948)
Directed by Howard HawksIn this Howard Hawks-directed Western, John Wayne plays the role of Tom Dunson, a cattle rancher who must drive his herd across the country in order to sell it. The film is known for its stunning cinematography, memorable performances, and epic scale.Red River is a classic Western film released in 1948. It was directed by Howard Hawks and stars John Wayne in one of his most iconic roles. The movie tells the gripping story of an ambitious rancher named Thomas Dunson, played by John Wayne, who leads a cattle drive from Texas to Kansas. Along the way, Dunson faces numerous challenges and conflicts with his adopted son, played by Montgomery Clift. Red River is known for its stunning cinematography, intense performances, and exploration of themes such as loyalty, fatherhood, and the pursuit of dreams.- Release Year: 1948
- Genre: Western
- Starring: John Wayne, Montgomery Clift
- Director: Howard Hawks
- Screenwriter: Borden Chase, Charles Schnee
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77votes
Christopher Hollis · Public domainSands of Iwo Jima (1949)
Directed by Allan DwanThis World War II drama stars John Wayne as a tough-as-nails Marine sergeant who leads his men into battle. The film was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish John Wayne as a bona fide movie star.Sands of Iwo Jima is a 1949 war film directed by Allan Dwan. It stars John Wayne as Sergeant John M. Stryker, a tough and experienced Marine Corps drill instructor. The story follows Stryker and his platoon as they train and prepare for the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. The film captures the challenge and sacrifices faced by the Marines and explores themes of heroism, camaraderie, and the cost of war.- Release Year: 1949
- Genre: War
- Runtime: 100 minutes
- Main Actor: John Wayne
- Setting: Battle of Iwo Jima
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812votes
The Quiet Man (1952)
Directed by John FordThis romantic comedy-drama is set in Ireland and stars John Wayne as an American boxer who moves to the small village where his family is from. The film is known for its beautiful scenery, charming characters, and memorable performances.The Quiet Man (1952) is a classic American romantic comedy-drama film. Set in Ireland, it tells the story of Sean Thornton, an Irish-American boxer who returns to his ancestral homeland to reclaim his family's farm. There, he falls in love with Mary Kate Danaher, a beautiful local woman, and must navigate the customs and traditions of the tight-knit Irish community to win her heart.- Release date: August 21, 1952
- Runtime: 129 minutes
- Genre: Romantic comedy-drama
- Language: English
- Country: United States
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94votes
Hank Goede · CC BY-SA 3.0Fort Apache (1948)
John FordDirected by John Ford, Fort Apache is a classic Western that explores the tensions between the U.S. Army and Native American tribes. John Wayne plays the role of Captain Kirby York, a soldier who must navigate the complicated relationships between the various factions.Fort Apache is a 1948 American Western film directed by John Ford. It tells the story of a seasoned cavalry officer who assumes command at a remote outpost and clashes with the ambitious and arrogant young lieutenant. The film explores themes of honor, duty, and the conflicting approaches to Native American relations.- Release Date: March 9, 1948
- Genre: Western
- Running Time: 128 minutes
- Starring: John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Shirley Temple
- Screenplay: Frank S. Nugent
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104votesThis Western comedy stars John Wayne as a cattle baron who must deal with a variety of personal and professional challenges. The film is known for its comedic elements, memorable performances, and stunning scenery.McLintock! is a 1963 American comedy Western film directed by Andrew V. McLaglen. It stars John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara in the lead roles. The film follows the story of George Washington McLintock, a wealthy and influential rancher, as he deals with various comedic situations and turbulent circumstances in his personal and professional life. With its mix of humor, romance, and action, McLintock! remains one of John Wayne's most popular films.
- Release Date: November 13, 1963
- Genre: Comedy, Western
- Runtime: 127 minutes
- Starring: John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, Patrick Wayne
- Screenplay: James Edward Grant
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Ranking factors for popular movie
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Box Office SuccessOne of the key factors in determining the popularity of a John Wayne movie is its box office success. How much money the movie made during its theatrical run is an indication of how many people went to see the film in theaters, which speaks to its popularity.
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Critical AcclaimAnother factor to consider is how well the movie was received by critics. The overall critical reception can help gauge the quality of the film, which can impact its popularity among audiences.
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Awards and NominationsA significant number of awards and nominations often indicate a movie's popularity, as well. Films that have won or been nominated for prestigious awards, such as Academy Awards or Golden Globes, may be considered more popular due to this recognition.
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Cultural ImpactA movie's cultural impact is another key factor in determining its popularity. Films that have memorable quotes, iconic scenes, or that have influenced other movies or pop culture, in general, may be considered more popular.
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Audience Ratings and ReviewsThe overall ratings and reviews from audiences (i.e., on websites like IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes) can also indicate a movie's popularity. Films with higher average scores and more positive reviews are likely to be more popular among viewers.
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GenreSome genres of film may be more popular with certain audiences, influencing the overall popularity of a John Wayne movie. For example, his Western films may be more popular among fans of that genre compared to his war movies or dramas.
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Co-stars and Supporting CastThe popularity of co-stars and the supporting cast can also contribute to a film's success and popularity. If a movie features other well-known and beloved actors, it may have a broader appeal to audiences.
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Director and ProductionA well-known director or production company behind a John Wayne movie may increase its popularity. Films directed by notable directors or produced by major studios may be better received or more widely seen.
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Theme and Subject MatterThe themes and subject matter of a John Wayne movie can also impact its popularity. Films that explore relevant or resonant issues, tell compelling stories, or feature complex characters may be more popular among viewers.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular John Wayne movie. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Film is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1422 views
- 158 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Film once every 24 hours. The rank of each Film is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular john wayne movie
John Wayne, known as "The Duke," is one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history. He appeared in over 170 films during his career, spanning six decades. Wayne's films were known for their portrayal of rugged masculinity, patriotism, and honor. His performances in westerns, war films, and dramas made him a beloved figure in American cinema. Wayne won his only Academy Award for his role in "True Grit" in 1969. Today, many of his films continue to be popular and have become cultural touchstones. From "The Searchers" to "Rio Bravo," there are many classic John Wayne movies to choose from. But which one is the most popular? Let's find out with a StrawPoll!
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