John Wayne, born Marion Robert Morrison on May 26, 1907, in Winterset, Iowa, remains an enduring legend of American cinema. Raised in a humble family, he initially worked as a prop boy in the film industry, eventually finding his way in front of the camera. With his rugged charm and distinctive voice, Wayne became a true Hollywood icon. John Wayne movies stand the test of time as beloved classics years later.
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His breakthrough came in 1939 with "Stagecoach," a film directed by John Ford, which catapulted him to stardom. He went on to star in over 170 films during his remarkable career. While best known for his roles in some of the best Westerns of all time, like "True Grit" and "The Searchers," he displayed his versatility in war movies like "The Longest Day" and "Sands of Iwo Jima."
Wayne's unwavering patriotism and strong moral values were often reflected in his characters, making him an embodiment of American heroism. His impact extended beyond the screen, as he supported the troops during World War II and later became an advocate for conservative political causes.
John Wayne's career spanned six decades, earning him numerous awards, including an Academy Award for his role in "True Grit." Despite his passing in 1979, his legacy endures, and he continues to be an enduring symbol of the American spirit in cinema.
Here's our ranking of the 25 best John Wayne movies.
25. 'The Long Voyage Home' (1940)
United Artists
Who else is in it: Thomas Mitchell, Ian Hunter, Barry Fitzgerald
Directed by John Ford, this film follows the crew of the SS Glencairn during World War II. It explores the challenges and camaraderie of a diverse group of seamen as they endure the perils of the sea and war, capturing the essence of life at sea.
24. 'How the West Was Won' (1962)
MGM
Who else is in it: James Stewart, Henry Fonda, Gregory Peck
A sprawling epic, this movie chronicles the westward expansion of the United States. It tells the story of several generations of a family as they face hardships, adventures, and encounters with historical figures, offering a grand portrayal of American frontier history.
23. 'Hatari!' (1962)
Paramount Pictures
Who else is in it: Elsa Martinelli, Hardy Krüger, Red Buttons
This action-comedy directed by Howard Hawks is set in East Africa, where a group of hunters capture wild animals for zoos. It's a thrilling adventure with a dose of humor, showcasing the daring work of the protagonists in a breathtaking landscape.
22. 'The High and the Mighty' (1954)
Warner Bros.
Who else is in it: Claire Trevor, Laraine Day, Robert Stack
Directed by William A. Wellman, this suspenseful aviation drama unfolds on a commercial flight facing life-threatening engine trouble. Passengers and crew must confront their fears and work together to survive, exploring human resilience under pressure.
21. 'Sands of Iwo Jima' (1949)
Republic Pictures
Who else is in it: John Agar, Adele Mara, Forrest Tucker
Starring John Wayne, this World War II film portrays the intense Battle of Iwo Jima. It focuses on a Marine sergeant's leadership and the transformation of his men from diverse backgrounds into a battle-hardened unit, emphasizing the sacrifices of war.
20. 'The Wings of Eagles' (1957)
Warner Bros.
Who else is in it: Dan Dailey, Maureen O'Hara, Ward Bond
Directed by John Ford, this biographical drama follows the life of Frank "Spig" Wead, a naval aviator. It explores his struggles and determination, both in his personal life and his contributions to the development of naval aviation.
19. 'Big Jake' (1971)
National General Pictures
Who else is in it: Richard Boone, Maureen O'Hara, Patrick Wayne
In this Western film, John Wayne plays a rancher seeking to rescue his kidnapped grandson. The movie combines elements of action and family drama, featuring Wayne's iconic tough-guy persona and a quest for justice.
18. 'McLintock!' (1963)
United Artists
Who else is in it: Maureen O'Hara, Patrick Wayne, Stefanie Powers
A Western comedy starring John Wayne, it portrays the tumultuous relationship between a wealthy cattle baron and his spirited ex-wife. The film mixes humor and romance against the backdrop of the Wild West.
17. 'The Horse Soldiers' (1959)
Warner Bros.
Who else is in it: William Holden, Constance Towers, Hoot Gibson
John Ford directs this Civil War-era adventure, following a Union Army cavalry unit on a dangerous mission deep into Confederate territory. The film blends action, camaraderie, and moral dilemmas amid the backdrop of the American Civil War.
16. 'The Cowboys' (1972)
Warner Bros.
Who else is in it: Roscoe Lee Browne, Bruce Dern, Colleen Dewhurst
A coming-of-age Western, it stars John Wayne as a rancher who enlists a group of young boys to help him drive cattle. As the boys face hardships and dangers, they discover courage and life lessons in this poignant adventure.
15. 'In Harm's Way' (1965)
Paramount Pictures
Who else is in it: Kirk Douglas, Patricia Neal, Tom Tryon
This World War II drama, directed by Otto Preminger, examines the lives and relationships of naval officers and their families. The film explores love, loss, and resilience amidst the backdrop of the Pacific theater.
14. 'The Alamo' (1960)
United Artists
Who else is in it: Richard Widmark, Laurence Harvey, Frankie Avalon
Directed by John Wayne, this historical drama reenacts the famous Battle of the Alamo, where a small Texan garrison faced overwhelming odds. The film showcases the valor and sacrifice of those who fought for Texas independence.
13. 'The Shootist' (1976)
Paramount Pictures
Who else is in it: Lauren Bacall, Ron Howard, James Stewart
In John Wayne's final film, he plays an aging gunslinger with a terminal illness. The movie reflects on the end of the Old West and the personal choices made by its characters in a changing world.
12. 'The Quiet Man' (1952)
Republic Pictures
Who else is in it: Maureen O'Hara, Barry Fitzgerald, Ward Bond
Directed by John Ford, this romantic drama is set in Ireland and tells the story of an American boxer returning to his ancestral home. It explores love, tradition, and the scenic Irish countryside.
11. 'She Wore a Yellow Ribbon' (1949)
RKO Radio Picture
Who else is in it: Joanne Dru, John Agar, Ben Johnson
Another John Ford classic, this Western stars John Wayne as an aging cavalry officer on the verge of retirement. It offers a character-driven narrative with stunning landscapes and the complexities of military life on the frontier.
10. 'The Sons Of Katie Elder' (1965)
Paramount Pictures
Who else is in it: Dean Martin, Martha Hyer, Michael Anderson Jr.
A Western tale of brothers seeking justice for their murdered father, this film blends action and family drama. The brothers, played by John Wayne and Dean Martin, confront outlaws and their own past.
9. 'Fort Apache' (1948)
RKO Radio Pictures
Who else is in it: Henry Fonda, Shirley Temple, Ward Bond
Directed by John Ford, this Western explores the challenges faced by a new, inexperienced cavalry commander and his seasoned second-in-command as they work to maintain order on the frontier. The film delves into military honor, leadership, and cultural misunderstandings.
8. 'El Dorado' (1966)
Paramount Pictures
Who else is in it: Robert Mitchum, James Caan, Charlene Holt
A Howard Hawks-directed Western, it stars John Wayne as a sheriff who, along with his allies, confronts a ruthless landowner and his gang. The film combines action and camaraderie, emphasizing the enduring qualities of friendship and justice.
7. 'The Longest Day' (1962)
20th Century Fox
Who else is in it: Richard Burton, Robert Mitchum, Robert Ryan
An epic World War II film, it portrays the Allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day. The movie offers a detailed account of the monumental operation, presenting the perspectives of various military units and their sacrifices.
6. 'Red River' (1948)
United Artists
Who else is in it: Montgomery Clift, Walter Brennan, Joanne Dru
Directed by Howard Hawks, this Western tells the story of a cattle drive led by a tough rancher and his adopted son. The film explores the challenges of the journey, conflicts between the characters, and the building of trust.
5. 'Rio Bravo' (1959)
Warner Bros.
Who else is in it: Dean Martin, Ricky Nelson, Angie Dickinson
A Howard Hawks-directed Western featuring John Wayne as a sheriff defending his town against a powerful rancher and his gang. The film focuses on the bond between the sheriff and his deputies, as they hold the line against overwhelming odds.
4. 'Stagecoach' (1939)
United Artists
Who else is in it: Claire Trevor, Andy Devine, Thomas Mitchell
Directed by John Ford, this classic Western follows a group of diverse travelers on a dangerous stagecoach journey through Apache territory. It is known for its compelling characters, suspenseful action, and its influential role in the Western genre.
3. 'True Grit' (1969)
Paramount Pictures
Who else is in it: Kim Darby, Glen Campbell, Robert Duvall
A Western adventure starring John Wayne as Rooster Cogburn, a U.S. Marshal. The film focuses on a young girl's quest for justice and her unlikely partnership with Cogburn, showcasing their determination and courage.
2. 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance' (1962)
Paramount Pictures
Who else is in it: James Stewart, Vera Miles, Lee Marvin
Directed by John Ford, this Western explores the legend of a heroic deed and the truth behind it. It delves into themes of law, order, and the gray area between right and wrong in the Old West.
1. 'The Searchers' (1956)
Warner Bros.
Who else is in it: Jeffrey Hunter, Vera Miles, Ward Bond
Directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne, this Western masterpiece follows a man's relentless quest to rescue his kidnapped niece from a Comanche tribe. The film explores themes of revenge, racism, and the complex character of the American frontier.
