Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Classic Western has memorable characters, gun violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
True Grit (1969)
What's the Story?
Mattie Ross (Kim Darby) needs to find someone with TRUE GRIT to help her track down Tom Chaney, the man who killed her father, so that she can see justice done. She hears that U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn (John Wayne) can get the job done, so she hires Cogburn to set out into Indian Territory to find the villain. Joining their search is Texas Ranger La Boeuf (Glen Campbell), who's also after Chaney for other crimes. The three companions eventually show how much grit they really have, but is it enough to see justice done, and to live to tell the tale?
Is It Any Good?
This is an entertaining American Western classic. True Grit combines action, suspense, fascinating characters, and spectacular landscapes, serving as a textbook introduction to the genre -- and to its star, Wayne, who won his only Oscar for his role here as Rooster. Depicted as his equal, teen Mattie is a remarkable lead who feels ahead of her time. Audiences will enjoy watching her put older men who bully her in their place, as she more than holds her own. Darby's captivating portrayal of the character is the movie's brightest spot. That said, other aspects of the film, such as sexually charged violence against a young woman and racist characterizations, are tougher to watch.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it means to have "true grit." Which characters have it, and how can you tell?
What makes Mattie such an unusual character? What do you like about her? Is she a realistic character?
How do the main characters demonstrate teamwork, courage, and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?
Families can talk about why Westerns like True Grit were once so popular in movies and on television. Are they as popular now? Why, or why not?
Did you notice any stereotypes in this movie? Which ones stood out to you? How are stereotypes harmful overall?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 11, 1969
- On DVD or streaming : March 21, 2000
- Cast : John Wayne , Glen Campbell , Kim Darby , Robert Duvall
- Director : Henry Hathaway
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Wallis-Hazen
- Genre : Western
- Topics : Adventures , Book Characters , Friendship , History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 128 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Awards : Academy Award , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Winner
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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