SYNOPSIS: "McLintock!" (1963) is a Western comedy film that follows the story of George Washington "G.W." McLintock, a wealthy and influential cattle baron. G.W. is estranged from his wife, Katherine, who left him two years earlier. The plot thickens when Katherine returns, demanding a divorce and custody of their daughter, Becky, who is returning home from college. The film captures G.W.'s attempts to reconcile with Katherine, who is determined to maintain her independence and dignity. Meanwhile, Becky finds herself caught in a romantic triangle between her childhood friend Devlin Warren, a charming but penniless young man, and the wealthy and arrogant Matt Douglas Jr. The film is set against the backdrop of a bustling frontier town, featuring comedic brawls, slapstick humor, and social commentary on gender roles and family dynamics. As tensions escalate, G.W. and Katherine's deep-seated love and respect for each other come to the fore, leading to a series of humorous and heartfelt moments that ultimately bring the family back together. Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, "McLintock!" stars John Wayne as G.W. McLintock and Maureen O'Hara as Katherine McLintock, delivering memorable performances that highlight their chemistry and comedic timing.

PLOT Spoiler Alert: "McLintock!" (1963) is a rollicking Western comedy that tells the story of George Washington "G.W." McLintock (John Wayne), a wealthy cattle baron who rules his ranch and the nearby town with a fair but firm hand. G.W. is estranged from his wife, Katherine (Maureen O'Hara), who left him two years earlier over a misunderstanding. Despite their separation, G.W. still loves Katherine and hopes for reconciliation, but she returns to town demanding a divorce and custody of their daughter, Becky (Stefanie Powers), who is coming home from college.

The story unfolds as G.W. navigates a series of personal and community challenges. Becky arrives, sparking romantic competition between Devlin Warren (Patrick Wayne), a hardworking young man hired by G.W., and Matt Douglas Jr. (Jerry Van Dyke), the immature son of one of G.W.'s rivals. Katherine's return sets off a comedic battle of wills with G.W., who is determined to win her back despite her fierce independence and strong temper.

In addition to the family drama, G.W. faces external pressures from corrupt land agents and government officials who are scheming to take over his land. These antagonists, including Governor Cuthbert H. Humphrey (Robert Lowery) and land agent Matt Douglas Sr. (Gordon Jones), try to use legal and political maneuvers to undermine G.W.'s authority and claim his valuable ranch.

The film is filled with humorous and action-packed scenes, including a chaotic town brawl during a festival, where G.W. and Katherine's fiery personalities clash, leading to comedic slapstick moments. One memorable scene involves a public spanking that G.W. gives to Katherine, reflecting the film's blend of humor and outdated gender dynamics.

Throughout the film, G.W. relies on the support of his loyal employees, including his butler Drago (Chill Wills), and forms a mentor-like relationship with Devlin. He also deals with the challenges posed by local Native American tribes, represented by Chief Puma (Michael Pate), who respects G.W. but demands fair treatment for his people.

As the film progresses, G.W.'s steadfastness and integrity win over his adversaries and family. Katherine realizes her love for G.W. never faded, and they reconcile, rekindling their romance. Becky, too, finds her place, choosing Devlin over the superficial Matt Douglas Jr.

Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen and produced by John Wayne's company, Batjac Productions, "McLintock!" combines slapstick humor, romantic tension, and action in a classic Western setting. The film's colorful characters, lively soundtrack, and picturesque landscapes contribute to its enduring appeal as a lighthearted yet heartfelt portrayal of love, family, and community in the Old West.

PRODUCTION: "McLintock!" (1963) was directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, a filmmaker known for his work in Westerns and action films. The screenplay was written by James Edward Grant, a frequent collaborator of John Wayne, who also produced the film through his production company, Batjac Productions.

The movie starred John Wayne as the titular character, George Washington "G.W." McLintock, and Maureen O'Hara as his estranged wife, Katherine. The chemistry between Wayne and O'Hara, having worked together on several previous films, added a vibrant dynamic to their on-screen relationship. The supporting cast included Stefanie Powers as their daughter, Becky, and Patrick Wayne, John Wayne's son, as Devlin Warren, a young man competing for Becky's affection. Other notable cast members included Chill Wills as Drago, the loyal butler, Yvonne De Carlo as Louise Warren, and Jerry Van Dyke as Matt Douglas Jr.

The film was shot in Technicolor and utilized stunning locations to bring the Western setting to life. Principal photography took place in Tucson, Arizona, and various other locations in Arizona, including Old Tucson Studios, where many classic Westerns were filmed. The expansive ranch scenes and vibrant town settings were beautifully captured, contributing to the film's authentic feel. The production design was handled by Eddie Imazu and Hal Pereira, who created detailed sets that added to the film's period atmosphere.

The cinematography by William H. Clothier, another frequent collaborator of Wayne, used the Arizona landscapes to full effect, showcasing the rugged beauty of the American West. Elmer Bernstein composed the film's score, adding a lively and memorable musical backdrop that enhanced the film's comedic and dramatic moments. Costume design, overseen by Michael Woulfe, ensured that the characters' attire was both period-appropriate and visually striking, further immersing the audience in the Old West setting.

"McLintock!" was a family affair in many ways, not only featuring Patrick Wayne but also incorporating behind-the-scenes work from John Wayne's other son, Michael Wayne, who served as an associate producer. The film's mix of slapstick humor, romantic entanglements, and action sequences reflected the strengths of its cast and crew, who worked together to create a Western that was both entertaining and heartwarming. Despite its comedic tone, "McLintock!" addressed themes of family, honor, and reconciliation, making it a memorable entry in the Western genre.

REVIEW: ”McLintock!" was released on November 13, 1963, by United Artists. The film premiered to considerable fanfare, with audiences eagerly anticipating the latest collaboration between John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, whose on-screen chemistry had proven to be a winning combination in previous films. Upon its release, "McLintock!" received a mixed to positive response from critics. While some reviewers were critical of the film's broad slapstick humor and perceived lack of depth, others praised its entertainment value, the strong performances of its lead actors, and its picturesque depiction of the American West.

The film was a commercial success, resonating particularly well with fans of John Wayne and Westerns. It capitalized on Wayne's star power, drawing large crowds to theaters. The comedic elements, including the memorable mud fight scene, were highlights for many viewers, contributing to the film's reputation as a lighthearted and fun Western. The chemistry between Wayne and O'Hara was frequently noted in reviews, with their spirited interactions being a standout feature.

"McLintock!" also benefited from the growing popularity of color films and the vibrant Technicolor cinematography, which showcased the Arizona landscapes and added visual appeal. The score by Elmer Bernstein was another praised aspect, adding to the film's lively and engaging atmosphere.

Over time, "McLintock!" has come to be appreciated as a classic Western comedy, and it remains a favorite among John Wayne's extensive filmography. Its blend of humor, romance, and action, combined with strong performances and picturesque settings, has ensured its enduring popularity with audiences. The film's initial mixed critical reception has mellowed over the years, with many contemporary viewers embracing its nostalgic charm and entertainment value.

CAST:

• John Wayne as George Washington McLintock

• Maureen O'Hara as Katherine McLintock

• Patrick Wayne as Devlin Warren

• Stefanie Powers as Becky McLintock

• Jack Kruschen as Jake Birnbaum

• Chill Wills as Drago

• Yvonne De Carlo as Louise Warren

• Jerry Van Dyke as Matt Douglas Jr.

• Edgar Buchanan as Bunny Dull

• Bruce Cabot as Ben Sage

• Perry Lopez as Davey Elk

• Strother Martin as Agard

• Gordon Jones as Matt Douglas

• Robert Lowrey as Gov. Cuthbert H. Humprey

• Hank Worden as Curly Fletcher

• Michael Pate as Puma

• Edward Faulkner as Young Ben Sage

• Mari Blanchard as Camille Leo Gordon as Jones

• Chuck Roberson as Sheriff Jeff Lord 

• Bob Steele as Train Engineer

• Aissa Wayne as Alice Warren

• ‘Big’ John Hamilton as Fauntleroy Sage

CREW:

• Director: Andrew V. McLaglen

• Producer: Michael Wayne

• Writer: James Edward Grant

• Cinematographer: William H. Clothier

• Editor: Otho Lovering, Bill Lewis

• Music: Frank De Vol

• Art Directors: Eddie Imazu, Hal Pereira

Production Company: Batjac Productions
Distributor: United Artists

Release Date: November 13, 1963
Country of Origin: United States
Running Time: 127 minutes
Budget: $2 million
Box Office Return: $5 million

IMDB Rating =  7.1 / 10

TRIVIA:

• The film's title, "McLintock!," refers to the character played by John Wayne, whose larger-than-life presence dominates both the ranch and the town.

• John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara's on-screen chemistry in "McLintock!" was a highlight, drawing from their successful pairing in previous films like "The Quiet Man."

• The climactic brawl scene in "McLintock!" is noted for its comedic elements and energetic choreography, showcasing Wayne's physical prowess and comedic timing.

• "McLintock!" marked one of the rare instances where John Wayne's character was given a first and last name in the film's title, emphasizing his central role in the story and its marketing appeal.

• Maureen O'Hara wrote in her autobiography that the famous climactic spanking scene was completely authentic and that John Wayne carried it out with such gusto that she had bruises for a week.

• When John Wayne needed 500 longhorn steers for a key scene, the Mexican government lent them to him. Mexican longhorns' horns tip up, as opposed to American longhorns, whose horns tip down.

• John Wayne insisted that the role of the weak, insipid Governor be called "Cuthbert H. Humphrey" with the intention that he be seen as a parody of liberal Sen. Hubert H. Humphrey, whom Wayne intensely disliked. Humphrey was Lyndon Johnson's Vice-President and the Democrat candidate in the 1968 Presidential election, losing to Republican, Richard Nixon.

• Although often seen as simply a knockabout comedy, John Wayne also intended the film to be a statement of his own political views, his disapproval of the negative representation of Native Americans in previous westerns he had no creative-control over, and his disapproval of wife-beating and marital abuse from either spouse.

• The "mudhole" in which the famous brawl took place was made of mud consisting of bentonite, a type of clay which is used in the drilling of oil wells and has the consistency of chocolate syrup. According to Leo Gordon (the first one to be knocked down into it), that scene took a week to shoot.

• John Wayne once remarked that, try as he might, he couldn't get Big John Hamilton to react properly in the scene where McLintock was "explaining" the rules for the fight between Fauntleroy and Dev at the party. Finally, Wayne resorted to actually stomping on Hamilton's foot and kicking him.

• According to producer/son Michael Wayne, in the scene where GW (John Wayne) jumps from a balcony to a pile of hay in a sitting position, Wayne thought it looked like fun and insisted on doing it himself, instead of a stuntman. Although studios frown on a valuable star doing a potentially dangerous stunt, Wayne eventually was allowed to do it, but it was also shot with a stuntman, just in case.

• The influence of John Ford on John Wayne is found in the film's use of some devices previously used by John Ford. Like Quincannon's protracted barroom brawl in She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949), the lengthy mudhole fight in this film is used for comic relief but does little to advance the plot of the film. And the final, very public confrontation between G.W. and Kate is reminiscent of Sean Thornton dragging Mary Kate from the train station to her brother at the threshing machine in The Quiet Man (1952).

• The second and last picture in which John Wayne uses the term "pilgrim." The other is The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962), in which he uses the term twenty-three times. In this one, he only uses it once.

• Maureen O'Hara stated in an interview that she wanted to do the stunt where she is supposed to jump through a plate-glass window. The studio not only would not allow her to do it, but it wouldn't allow even a stunt woman to do it. They insisted it was too dangerous even for a trained stunt woman and said it had to be done by a male stuntman. As a result, the stunt was performed by veteran stunt man Dean Smith wearing a wig and O'Hara's clothes.

• Included two "Queens of Technicolor," Maureen O'Hara and Yvonne De Carlo, who had both received the nickname earlier in their careers.

• This film has several flashback references to Hondo (1953), mostly about the Indian chief and John Wayne. Also, the Indian chief in this film is the same actor (Michael Pate) as the one in "Hondo."

• When Batjac, John Wayne's production company, needed completion funds for The Alamo (1960), it borrowed the money from United Artists with the Batjac film library used as collateral. McLintock's success, and therefore profits, allowed Batjac to reclaim control of the films.

• The inspiration for this raucous John Wayne comedy was none other than William Shakespeare's "Taming of the Shrew," which producer Michael Wayne and director Andrew V. McLaglen thought would have even more of a comedic kick if it were set in the Old West.

• During the pheasant hunting segment, John Wayne shot real birdshot. The pheasants were released on cue so that he knew when and where to shoot.

• Fourth of five movies that paired John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara.

• Michael Pate appears as Puma, the Comanche chief who once was G.W.'s enemy. Ten years earlier, Pate appeared in Hondo (1953) as an Apache chief who was the enemy of John Wayne's character.

• John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara portrayed a married couple in The Quiet Man (1952). In that film Wayne's character, Sean Thornton, walks into the house drunk and shouts at O'Hara's character, Mary Kate, "Woman of the house!" In this film his character also walks into the house drunk and uses the same call to get her attention, "Woman of the house!"

• Henry Hathaway was John Wayne's first choice for director, but his salary demands caused the producer-star to opt for director Andrew V. McLaglen, the son of his old friend and colleague Victor McLaglen.

• Produced by John Wayne's Batjac Productions for United Artists, Wayne's estate retained the rights to the film. In 1994 a legal case determined the film was in the public domain in the U.S., but the music score remained under copyright.

• The success of the film helped John Wayne enormously, as The Alamo (1960) had cost him in both financial and "box-office capital" terms.

• Although Stefanie Powers claims that John Ford came to the set to direct the movie for a week, director Andrew V. McLaglen says that never happened. He says he was there for the entire shoot of the movie.

• Andrew V. McLaglen was the first director that John Wayne had to look up to. At 6'7" McLaglen was more than three inches taller than Wayne.

• Final film of Gordon Jones. He died of a heart attack just after production ended, and before the film was released to theaters.

• John Wayne didn't fire a loaded gun at another human being in this film, likely the only time this occurred in one of his westerns. In the story, the gun he fired at Dev had blanks in it and the only other time he shot a gun was when he was bird hunting.

• In the scene where the Comanches were outfitted with rifles, it's easy to see that they're Krag Jorgensen carbines, meaning that this film takes place in at least 1895, as the Krag wasn't issued as a standard military rifle until 1894.

• Jerry Van Dyke was an accomplished banjo player and did his own banjo playing.

• The film takes place in late June and early July 1895. Douglas Jr. has just returned from college and said he graduated valedictorian class of '95.

• The McLintock ranch house is also seen briefly in an early scene of Tom Horn (1980) with Steve McQueen where Horn first eats a lobster.

• Early in the film Katharine (Maureen O'Hara) tells McLintock that she "hates" the name Becky, their daughter's nickname. Later, when Rebecca gets off the train, Katherine twice calls her "Becky."

• The film's last name is the same as the name of a character in The Magnificent Ambersons (1942).

• When Katherine (Maureen O'Hara) says to George, "If you knew anything about Indians, you'd know that there isn't a single word for 'corn'," she is correct. Each specific tribe has its own word. For instance, the Choctaw called it "tunchi," while the Chickasaw called it "tanchi." The name "corn" is actually an Old English word that refers to any grain, including barley, oats, rye, and wheat.

• Son Patrick Wayne (Devlin) gets a well-deserved belt to his posterior with the hairbrush during the legendary "spanking" scene, courtesy of his father John Wayne (G.W.)!

"Mclintock!" remains a beloved classic Western comedy, celebrated for its iconic performances by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and its enduring popularity among fans of the genre.