I have seen this movie at least two dozen times since I was a youth. This includes viewing as part of college curriculum. Clearly, this movie is a national institution, helped establish a film genre, became a pictograph of part of our history, and made the careers of more than one actor. However, it was watching it again this morning that I came to realise how some scenes are masterfully composed. I am not talking about Monument Valley, Utah, the scenes most associated with John Ford. The compositions I was impressed by took place early in the story at Chris' stagecoach stop. Chris was the Mexican proprietor with the Apache wife ("They don't bother me..., I think...). Recall the moment at night with the Vaqueors sitting around a small fire. Each of them is wearing a broad brimmed hat (not quite a sombrero) and a serape'. One man has his foot up and is holding a guitar. The scene appears to be lit solely by the fire (a skillfull illusion in the days of "slow" black and white film!). The camera remains still on thise scene for a moment. It almost looks like a painting by El Greco or Velasquez.
Review of Stagecoach
