The Shootist (1976)

PG07/21/1976Western1h 40m
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He's got to face a gunfight once more to live up to his legend once more. To win just one more time.

Overview

Afflicted with a terminal illness John Bernard Books, the last of the legendary gunfighters, quietly returns to Carson City for medical attention from his old friend Dr. Hostetler. Aware that his days are numbered, the troubled man seeks solace and peace in a boarding house run by a widow and her son. However, it is not Books' fate to die in peace, as he becomes embroiled in one last valiant battle.

Top Billed Cast

  1. Cast 1

    John Wayne

    J.B. Books

  2. Cast 1

    Lauren Bacall

    Bond Rogers

  3. Cast 1

    Ron Howard

    Gillom Rogers

  4. Cast 1

    James Stewart

    Dr. Hostetler

  5. Cast 1

    Richard Boone

    Mike Sweeney

  6. Cast 1

    Hugh O'Brian

    Jack Pulford

  7. Cast 1

    Bill McKinney

    Jay Cobb

  8. Cast 1

    Harry Morgan

    Marshall Thibido

  9. Cast 1

    John Carradine

    Beckum

John Wayne's final big screen role sees him playing a terminally-ill gunfighter determined to go out with his boots on - and to take as much local riff-raff with his as he goes. He settles down in a boarding house run by a slightly puritanical widow - Lauren Bacall, and her teenage son played by Ron Howard. Once his doctor, James Stewart, has confirmed the worst, he manipulates some of the local ne'er-do-wells into ensuring he gets the send off he desires. His relationship with Bacall thaws, somewhat, and we end with a gentle nod to both of their different sorts of humanity. Make no mistake, t...