John Wayne and Dean Martin: Their Together Films in the Golden Age of Westerns

Two of Hollywood's biggest stars, John Wayne and Dean Martin, shared a fascinating on-screen chemistry that shone through in their two classic Western films: Rio Bravo (1959) and The Sons of Katie Elder (1965). These films were notable for not just their star power but also for their significant contributions to the Western genre.

The Chemistry Between John Wayne and Dean Martin

John Wayne and Dean Martin first crossed paths in the film Rio Bravo. This classic Western, directed by Howard Hawks, brought the two stars together as Sheriff John T. Chance, played by Wayne, and the drunken yet good-hearted deputy Dude, played by Martin. The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest Westerns ever made. It starred several other notable actors, including Dean Martin himself, Ricky Nelson, Angie Dickinson, Walter Brennan, and Ward Bond.

In 1965, they starred again in The Sons of Katie Elder. This western film also directed by Howard Hawks featured Wayne as John Elder and Martin as his brother Tom Elder. The story revolves around the Elder brothers returning to their hometown after their mother's death to settle family matters.

Rio Bravo: A Classic Western Classic

Rio Bravo is a standout among Western films. It was released in 1959 and is known for its compelling storyline, memorable characters, and the fantastic performances by Wayne and Martin. The film follows Sheriff John T. Chance, a resolute lawman, played by John Wayne, who must defend the town of Rio Bravo against a powerful rancher and his gang. Dean Martin's character, Dude, brings a touch of unpredictability and humor that makes their dynamic on-screen duo even more engaging.

The Sons of Katie Elder: A Family Tale

The Sons of Katie Elder takes a different approach, focusing on the family dynamics of the Elder brothers. The story is set in their hometown after their mother's death and follows their journey to settle family matters. Dean Martin and John Wayne's on-screen relationship here is more melancholic and dramatic, as they deal with personal and familial issues.

Additional Notes and Comparisons

According to one informative source, The Sons of Katie Elder is considered the better of the two films, complementing Rio Bravo with its deep exploration of family and loyalty. Another film from this era that shares similarities with both is El Dorado, which also stars John Wayne and Walter Brennan. Both Rio Bravo and El Dorado feature a powerful performance by Walter Brennan, a three-time Oscar winner who became one of the most recognizable supporting actors in Hollywood.

It's worth noting that besides their on-screen collaborations, John Wayne and Dean Martin also shared a personal friendship. Dean Martin even appeared on John Wayne's show, adding another layer to their already strong connection.

These films are invaluable not just for their entertainment value, but also for the insights they offer into the collaboration between two of Hollywood's greatest actors. Their work together not only cemented their status as major stars but also left a lasting legacy in the Western genre.

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