Gazzaniga's Movie Review

This remake of the 1969 classic exceeded all expectations and dare I say, outshined its predecessor.  No small feat considering that the original starred the quintessential cowboy of all time, John Wayne AND the rising Robert Duvall.  The Cohen brothers casted their actors and actresses perfectly and launched what is bound to be the promising career of 18 year old Hailee Steinfeld.  Playing character Mattie Ross, a young girl whose father was murdered by the degenerate Tom Chaney, Steinfeld commands a presence on screen among acting juggernauts Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, and Josh Brolin.

I was pleasantly surprised by Jeff Bridges performance as US Marshal Rooster Cogburn.  Whenever I think of Jeff Bridges, a few things come to mind.  Bowling, White Russians, a rug that tied the room together, and nihilists.  That's right.  The Big Lebowski, AKA the Dude, Duder, or El Duderino if you aren't into the whole brevity thing.  So when I saw the preview for True Grit with Jeff Bridges as a badass cowboy I wondered if I would be able to shed all the images that naturally pop into ones head of him in flip flops and wayfarers.  As it turns out, he didn't need to because the character Rooster Cogburn had enough comedy and wit to compliment his intimidating ruthless nature, his true grit.  In one particular scene Cogburn found his way into a stash of whiskey before a long ride on a horse and swayed and mumbled in a very dudesque way.  But then again there were times when he became a frightening dark cowboy in a way i didn't know Jeff bridges capable.  All in all I give Jeff Bridges and A+ performance.

Matt Damon was equally as good in his role as a nerdy Texas Ranger.  His character Mr. LaBeef was cross between Linus from the Ocean's series, mark Whitacre from The Informant, and Jason Bourne from the Bourne series.  About 95% Linus and Whitacre, and just a 5% dash of Bourne to make him a fairly functioning cowboy.  Damon character is the perfect juxtaposition to the harsh environment in which he operates, the criminals he hunts, and the company he keeps.

Josh Brolin made a fine short appearance.  He didn't mess anything up.

All in all True Grit was a character piece where 3 extraordinary actors gave 3 flawless performances to make True Grit on of the most exciting movies to see in this last minute push for Oscar Nominations.

Predictions: Nominated for Best Film, Best Supporting Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, Best Costume Design, Best Original Score.  Wins in Best Film

Zack Reporting from 18 Rabbits