True Grit

The story line of True Grit isn't that complicated-- A girl wants to seek revenge for her father who was killed by his client-- but the emotions and relationships beneath this story is truly touching. The story's main character Mattie is a stubborn, witty, and brave little girl who will not give up until she reaches her goal. On the other hand, Cogburn, an old drunk law-man seems to have less "True Grit" in him.

Society: The society is cruel, no one wants to help the little girl because it's non of their business. LaBoeuf, in my opinion, kind of represents the society. The reason he wanted to capture Chaney at first was because of the money. But at the end (in the Coen brothers film version), he is willing to help Mattie with no cost. I also find it pretty interesting how the book and the two movies has different endings for LaBoeuf. In the 1969 film, LaBoeuf was killed during the fight with Chaney. But in the Coen brothers film, they did not address the whereabouts of LaBoeuf, he stayed missing after the final fight, and Mattie is hoping to see him again someday.

Nature of humans: Cogburn could have just left Mattie and save himself for the good. But he returned and helped Mattie. Their relationship progressed as we get to know more about each of them. Cogburn always calls Mattie little sister, sort of like he is taking care of her while Mattie wanted to be treated like an adult.

I have not watched a lot of western movies, but I truly love this story. What lies beneath just a western story is the warm hearts of people and having true grit to help others.

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