Why the Coen Brothers' "True Grit" Was a Success but Not a Remake of "Rooster Cogburn"

The Coen Brothers and Their Success with "True Grit"

The Coen Brothers, renowned for their unique and often dark humor in filmmaking, are known for their consistent but selective approach to sequels. Their 2010 period drama, True Grit, is a prime example of a film that achieved both critical and commercial success. The True Grit remake, starring Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, and Hailee Steinfeld, cost only $38 million and grossed a significant $252 million worldwide. This success was further crowned by True Grit's nominations for 10 Academy Awards, including an impressive nod for Best Picture.

This commercial and critical success is understandably daunting for any filmmaker, and it set high standards for future projects. However, despite the overwhelming positive reception, the Coen Brothers chose not to continue the narrative with a remake of their 1975 film, Rooster Cogburn.

Why "Rooster Cogburn" Wasn't Deserving of a Remake

The 1975 film, directed by John Huston, was a loose remake of the classic 1952 film, The African Queen, starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. As a remake of a remake, the Coen Brothers and Huston faced unique challenges. While remakes can provide an opportunity to modernize and update a classic story, the Coen Brothers refrained from such an undertaking for their 1975 film. It’s likely that the script and narrative of Rooster Cogburn did not offer the same scope for creative reinterpretation that True Grit did.

Roger Ebert, the renowned film critic, praised the 1975 Rooster Cogburn, calling it a:

“... almost perfect movie of violence and humor, two qualities that defined the character of Cogburn. It’s a modest, retrograde, and exceptionally good film.”

However, even this high praise does not necessarily mean that a modern remake could have improved upon the original. The original film, with its gritty, straightforward storytelling, might have been as perfect as it was in its original form, making a remake unnecessary. The Coen Brothers, known for their nuanced and complex storytelling, might have found it challenging to breathe new life into a story that was already a classic.

The Decision to Avoid Sequels

The Coen Brothers are notorious for their selective approach to sequels. Unlike many Hollywood filmmakers who rely on repeated success of a character or franchise, the Coen Brothers prefer to let go of their creations after achieving success. This approach aligns with their artistic vision, which often focuses on capturing a moment in time rather than extending a narrative indefinitely.

There are several factors that contribute to their decision to end their True Grit saga with the 2010 film. The success of the 2010 adaptation might have already satisfied their creative impulses, providing a satisfying conclusion to the story. Additionally, the Coen Brothers are known for their unconventional storytelling techniques and a desire to create fresh and unique narratives. This artistic choice often leads them to avoid repetitive, formulaic storytelling.

As Roger Ebert noted, the 1975 Rooster Cogburn was:

“A film that… isn't improved by a remake.”

While the Rooster Cogburn film from 1975 holds its own as a classic, adding a modern spin might not have been necessary and could potentially detract from its original charm. The Coen Brothers, by letting the story rest, ensured that True Grit remains a work of art in its own right without the pressure of conforming to contemporary standards or trends.

Conclusion: The Value in Ending on a High Note

The Coen Brothers’ decision to avoid a remake of Rooster Cogburn is one of many examples of their unique approach to filmmaking. By ending their True Grit saga with a triumphant and highly successful adaptation, they set a standard that allowed the story to thrive on its own merits. This selective approach to continuation, often seen as a risk, can ultimately lead to richer, more authentic storytelling.

While the Coen Brothers might not have delved into the world of Rooster Cogburn again, their decision to preserve a specific moment in time, defined by stunning performances and masterful storytelling, ensures that both True Grit and Rooster Cogburn remain beloved classics in their own unique approach to filmmaking and storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.