Overview
Like other filmmakers in post-WWII Hollywood, John Ford (already a three-time Best Directing Oscar winner), longed for the freedom and independence to make his own films, away from the dictates of studio executives. Then, in 1946, Ford and producer Merian C. Cooper (King Kong) decided to form their own production company, Argosy Productions. But their first venture was a financial flop, burdening the new company with heavy debt.
Ford turned to the Western genre to help his flagging company, adapting James Warner Bellahās short story, āMassacre.ā Fort Apache, released in 1948, starring John Wayne, Henry Fonda and Shirley Temple, was popular at the box office and with film critics.
The following year, She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, was released to a positive critical reception a brisk business at the box office. This film was the only one in the cavalry trilogy shot in Technicolor, going on to win the Academy Award for Best Cinematography.
Rio Grande (1950), the final film in the triad, was produced by Republic Pictures (the first of a three-picture deal with Argosy Productions) and marked the first pairing of John Wayne and Maureen OāHara. Because of the filmās box office success, Republic Pictures greenlit Fordās dream project, The Quiet Man (1952).
John Fordās cavalry trilogy is considered some of his finest work, although Ford always claimed he never intended to make a trilogy. The reality is the first two films were produced to financially help his company, while the final one served as a means to getting his dream project produced.
The Cavalry Trilogy illuminates how each film was made, from pre-production to its theatrical release. Along the way, readers learn why Ford loved his favorite location (Monument Valley), how various stunts were achieved, and how Ford
used his unique style in various scenes (called a āFordian touchā by film critics and scholars). In addition, each film includes an analysis of Fordās scene construction and character development. Illustrated with numerous behind-the-scenes photographs, many which have never been published before, and screen captures from the cutting room floor, this book is the ultimate gift for John Ford fans and readers who love to discover the grit and glamour of Hollywoodās Golden Age.
This book title, The Cavalry Trilogy (John Ford, John Wayne, and the Making of Three Classic Westerns), ISBN: 9781493077069, by Michael F. Blake, published by Globe Pequot (March 5, 2024) is available in paperback. Our minimum order quantity is 25 copies. All standard bulk book orders ship FREE in the continental USA and delivered in 4-10 business days.
Unlike Amazon and other retailers who may also offer The Cavalry Trilogy (John Ford, John Wayne, and the Making of Three Classic Westerns) books on their website, we specialize in large quantities and provide personal service, from trusted, experienced, friendly people in Portland, Oregon. We offer a Price Match Guarantee, and QuickQuote form, to make purchasing quick and easy.
Prefer to work with a human being when you order The Cavalry Trilogy (John Ford, John Wayne, and the Making of Three Classic Westerns) books in bulk? Our Book Specialists are standing by Monday-Friday 8-5 PST, ready to help!