The Virginian 1929

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The Virginian ★★★ 1929

A classic early-talkie western about a ranch-hand defeating the local bad guys. One line of dialogue has become, with modification, a standard western cliche: “If you want to call me that, smile.” Based on the novel by Owen Wister. With this starring role, Cooper broke away from the juvenile lovers he had been playing to the laconic, rugged male leads he would be known for. Huston is perfectly cast as the outlaw leader. 95m/B VHS . Gary Cooper, Walter Huston, Richard Arlen, Chester Conklin, Eugene Pallette; D: Victor Fleming.