The Shootist (1976)

A famous but aging gunfighter (John Wayne) comes to Carson City in Nevada to be examined by a doctor (James Stewart). The doctor confirms what he suspected ..... he has terminal cancer. But his hopes of living out his final days in peace are dashed when word of his presence brings out the wannabe gunfighters who want to make their own mark by gunning him down. Based on the novel by Glendon Swarthout (WHERE THE BOYS ARE) and directed by Don Siegel (CHARLEY VARRICK). Perhaps the greatest gift of a swan song to an actor, it's near impossible to watch the film without acknowledging the almost 50 years of his iconic career that he brings to the part. The man, the Star and the legend all come together here. His poignant subdued performance allows him to both perpetuate his persona yet still let that persona down so we can see the man confronted with his own mortality and while frightened of what lies ahead, makes no apologies and goes out on his own terms. With one exception, the acting is very good and Elmer Bernstein's subtle score hits all the right notes. With Lauren Bacall (quite good), Ron Howard, Richard Boone, Hugh O'Brian, Sheree North, John Carradine, Rick Lenz, Scatman Crothers and in the film's one bad performance, Harry Morgan.