Subdeacon Joe Posted January 20 Posted January 20 In the summer of 1963, a film was born that had little interest in being taken seriously. It wasn’t about pushing cinematic boundaries or breaking new ground; it was about having fun. The movie was *Donovan’s Reef*, the final collaboration between two cinematic giants—John Wayne and director John Ford. But this wasn’t going to be one of their epic Westerns, with morality and honor at stake. No, this one would be something different, something lighter, a chance for a good time with friends. Ford, a man known for his epic films like *The Searchers* and *The Quiet Man*, had already made his mark on the Hollywood landscape. But after decades of serious work, Ford wanted a break. What better way than to go to Hawaii with a group of people he liked and make a movie for the sheer enjoyment of it? Ford’s script was hardly the focus. Instead, it was the camaraderie between the actors that took center stage, each bringing their unique energy to the screen. Lee Marvin, a man who had become famous for his tough guy roles and razor-sharp wit, was cast as Gilhooley. But this role wasn’t about deep character work. Marvin didn’t need to spend nights analyzing motivations. Ford simply told him: “Take the role. It doesn’t matter what the story is. Just have fun.” The idea was to get out of the routine, let go of the pressure of high expectations, and enjoy the luxury of a paid vacation in paradise. For Marvin, that meant turning the film into a roughhouse comedy—a playground where he could do whatever he wanted. He brought his signature energy to the film, playing Gilhooley with a carefree bravado that matched the sun-soaked atmosphere of the Hawaiian islands. But the real beauty of *Donovan’s Reef* lay in its laid-back spirit. It was a chance for Wayne, a man known for playing stoic, larger-than-life heroes, to relax and let loose. He wasn’t being asked to embody the weight of the American frontier or the tragic hero of a John Ford Western. Instead, Wayne could just be himself—a man enjoying the warmth of the islands, with a drink in hand and a laugh in the air. It was a chance to play, to bond with old friends and share in the lighthearted chaos of a film that didn’t take itself too seriously. For the crew, it was a gift to make a film without the pressure of pushing boundaries. It was almost like a secret, an inside joke among the cast and crew. *Donovan’s Reef* was a movie made for the fun of it. There was no grand philosophical message to deliver, no deep moral dilemma to solve. Just people, old friends, and a lot of sunshine. As soon as the cameras stopped rolling, the real fun began. With the iconic Ford-Wayne partnership now coming to an end, *Donovan’s Reef* served as a fitting farewell—one last hurrah before the curtain fell on a legendary collaboration. And though it didn’t leave a lasting mark on film history, *Donovan’s Reef* still has a special place in the hearts of those who remember it as a time when Hollywood stars took a break from their serious roles and allowed themselves to just enjoy the ride. It was a film, not meant to be remembered for its plot or its art, but for the sheer joy of making it. And sometimes, that’s exactly what makes a movie truly memorable. 2 3 2 Quote
Stump Water Posted January 20 Posted January 20 (edited) And a great movie it is. . Edited January 20 by Stump Water Schpellin 4 Quote
Cold Lake Kid, SASS # 51474 Posted January 20 Posted January 20 I have it on a DVD and always enjoy re-watching it. Another great one for Sherron and I was "HATARI!" I pulled it from my DVD library and watched it again not to long ago. 3 Quote
Blackwater 53393 Posted January 20 Posted January 20 This was my dad’s favorite “Christmas movie”!! I watch it a couple times every year during the holidays. 3 Quote
Forty Rod SASS 3935 Posted January 21 Posted January 21 My wife and I watched it every Christmas holiday, too. Usually more than once. Since she passed the dog and I watch it together, but the little dog usually spends the time asleep on my lap.......and that's alright with me. 4 Quote
Alpo Posted January 21 Posted January 21 Something I dislike about that movie is when they shake hands. Amelia and Guns. Do they say pact - we have reached an agreement? Or do they say pax - peace, we will not argue anymore? It seems like it should be pax, but sometimes it seems like I can hear a T. Did y'all know that Leilani played Andy Devine's daughter in Liberty Valance? Bit part. She was one of the students in Lance Stoddard's school. Quote
Blackwater 53393 Posted January 21 Posted January 21 They’re saying PAX! It’s Latin for PEACE, but they’re pronouncing it incorrectly. It’s pronounced with a short “O” sound, but folks sometimes think you’re wishing a pox on them.’ Stoddard’s first name was RANCE, short for RANSOM. 1 Quote
Alpo Posted January 21 Posted January 21 I knew I should have just said Stoddard. But no, I had to be fancy and use his whole name. Originally I had Doc's dotter's name down as Amanda, but when verifying that that was in fact Andy Devine that played the stagecoach driver I came across her name was Amelia. And corrected it. And I should have realized then that my memory was faulty. Er than normal. Quote
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