Several reviewers have a made the point that this film ought to be compared to The Grapes of wrath. Perhaps it should be better viewed as a companion piece rather than a lesser effort. It happens to be a perfectly fine film that is less maudlin than the Grapes of Wrath and may be the far better exemplar. The John Wayne character's explanation of why Oregon should be the destination was exactly right. The message that resonates is that being free and independent is the point of it and choosing a destination that affords freedom is the better choice. Further, it is heroic to choose the more difficult path and that it is at least sometimes the smarter choice as well. Let the lemmings complain and whine. Let those willing to make the effort win. On the Duke's 101st birthday, I for one say thank you for this reminder and all the others of American exceptionalism.
Review of Three Faces West
