Matt Damon’s True Grit: The Western That Stole the Show
Matt Damon’s turn in the Coen brothers’ True Grit brought the Western back into the spotlight, earning ten Oscar nods and sparking debate over which version tops the lot. Find out why this film left such a mark.
When Matt Damon joined forces with Ethan and Joel Coen for their 2010 Western, True Grit, the result was a film that quickly became a standout in its field. The story centres on Mattie Ross, a determined teenager played by Hailee Steinfeld, who’s out to settle the score with Tom Chaney, the bloke responsible for her father’s death. She ropes in Rooster Cogburn, a grizzled U.S. Marshal, and together with Damon’s Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, they set off on a gritty pursuit through the American frontier.
True Grit didn’t just make waves for its gripping tale of vengeance. It managed to breathe new life into a genre many had written off, racking up ten nominations at the 83rd Academy Awards. Steinfeld, in her first major film role, even scored a nod for Best Supporting Actress, a rare feat for a newcomer.
Reviving the Western: What Set True Grit Apart
Plenty of Westerns have come and gone, but the Coen brothers’ take on Charles Portis’ classic novel struck a chord with both critics and punters. The film stayed true to its source while carving out its own identity, blending sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and a distinct visual style. It’s often compared to the 1969 version directed by Henry Hathaway, which starred John Wayne and also received its share of praise. Still, many reckon the 2010 adaptation edges out its predecessor, thanks to its top-notch cast, Carter Burwell’s haunting score, and Roger Deakins’ striking cinematography.
Fans have weighed in on the debate, with comments like:
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The consensus seems clear: the Coen brothers’ version has become the favourite among many, with its fresh take and strong performances leaving a lasting impression.
Oscar Night: A Shutout That Shocked Many
Despite its critical acclaim and box office success, True Grit walked away empty-handed at the Oscars. The film was up for Best Picture alongside a tough field, including Winter’s Bone, Toy Story 3, The Social Network, 127 Hours, The Kids Are All Right, Inception, The King’s Speech, Black Swan, and The Fighter. In the end, The King’s Speech took home the top prize, leaving True Grit with ten nominations but no wins.
The categories it was recognised in included Best Director, Best Actor for Jeff Bridges, Best Supporting Actress for Steinfeld, Best Adapted Screenplay, and several technical awards. Many still reckon Steinfeld deserved to take home a trophy for her standout performance as Mattie, especially given the competition she faced.
Legacy and Where to Watch
Even without Oscar gold, the film’s legacy is secure. It’s widely regarded as a modern classic, praised for its faithful adaptation, creative choices, and the chemistry among its cast. For those keen to revisit the story, the 2010 version is available to stream on Paramount+ via Prime Video, while the original can be found on MGM+.
True Grit’s impact on the Western genre and its place in film history continue to spark discussion, with many still debating which version comes out on top. The Coen brothers’ effort, though, has certainly left its mark.