Summary
- Henry Fonda's love affair with the Western genre is striking and immutable, showcasing his commitment to showcasing ordinary men speaking out against injustice in the Wild West.
- Warlock (1959) is a noteworthy classic Western that delves into complex relationships, justice, morality, and personal sacrifice, making it cinematically rich and emotionally charged.
- Henry Fonda's performance in films like The Tin Star (1957) and Once Upon A Time In The West (1968) demonstrates his acting range, from playing a former sheriff turned bounty hunter to portraying a cold-blooded killer.
Henry Fonda left an indelible mark on the film industry, and many Western titles stand out for their engrossing plots, evocative themes, and exceptional performances. In the six decades of his career, Henry Fonda mastered his craft through the varying quality of nearly one hundred films. His legacy endures as a testament to his commitment to powerful storytelling delivered through authentic characters.
Widely regarded as one of the greats of Hollywood’s classic era, Henry Fonda starred in a broad range of films throughout his storied career. Yet even considering the diversity of Fonda’s staggering portfolio, his love affair with the Western genre is both striking and immutable. Committed to showcasing ordinary men speaking out against injustice, Fonda built his career in the one setting that forever captured his essence: the Wild West.
Henry Fonda's 10 Best Movies, According To Rotten Tomatoes
Henry Fonda is among the elite of Hollywood royalty; here are his 10 best movies according to Rotten Tomatoes.
10 Warlock (1959)
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Warlock stands out for its gripping portrayal of the Old West. Set in a small town in Utah, it centers on freelance marshal Clay Blaisedell (Henry Fonda) and former outlaw Johnny Gannon (Richard Widmark) as they confront lawlessness. The narrative delves into complex relationships, notably Blaisedell's bond with his clubfooted assistant (Anthony Quinn) and Gannon's transformation into the town's deputy. The film masterfully intertwines themes of justice, morality, and personal sacrifice. Cinematically rich and emotionally charged, Warlock remains a noteworthy classic Western even if it isn’t Henry Fonda’s very best.
9 Drums Along The Mohawk (1939)
Streaming on Apple TV, Vudu, and Amazon Prime Video
As his first technicolor film, Drums Along The Mohawk serves as a monumental landmark in Henry Fonda’s extraordinary career. Set in the early pioneer days, the movie follows two newlyweds struggling to settle in New York’s Mohawk Valley as the Revolutionary War looms overhead and repeated Indian attacks threaten their dreams of peace and prosperity. The film earned its supporting actress, Edna May Oliver, an Oscar nomination. Additionally, Drums Along The Mohawk garnered praise for its cinematography, thanks in large part to its departure from the industry’s standard back-and-white timbre.
8 The Return of Frank James (1940)
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Following the events of 1939’s Jesse James, The Return of Frank James sees Henry Fonda reprising his role as the outlaw’s older brother, Frank James. With Fonda now playing lead, Frank hunts Charlie and Bob Ford to avenge his brother’s murder. Fonda’s warm charm breathes life into his character, managing to evoke empathy for the infamous outlaw and blending wonderfully against the backdrop of the narrative’s cynical and antagonistic undertones. This film sneaks sidelong glances at Jesse James while offering plenty of reasons to be equally captivated by his brother.