Stagecoach

Many characters carry guns or rifles. There's a long battle between the Apache and the characters on the stagecoach, with whizzing bullets and flying arrows. Some major characters die, and some blood can be seen.

A major character, Dallas, is apparently a prostitute, though this is never actually discussed. She is treated as a morally bankrupt outcast. Another character is pregnant and delivers a baby, though -- again -- none of this is shown or mentioned.

A major character, the doctor, is a drunk. He drinks constantly, and sobers up only to help deliver the baby. As soon as that task is completed, he begins drinking again. He pals around with a "whiskey drummer" (i.e. salesman) and drinks up all his samples. He also smokes cigars, and other characters are seen smoking.

Parents need to know that Stagecoach is a classic, landmark western from 1939, a masterpiece from director John Ford that featured John Wayne in his breakout role. This movie was designed for grown-ups, exploring complex psychological, moral and character issues through its simple story. Happily, it's also crackerjack entertainment, with plenty of tense conflict, humor, and action; it's also famous for one of the most dangerous stunts ever filmed. Younger kids may be bored, but for others that have never seen a western before, this is a grand place to start. It was nominated for seven Oscars and won two.

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