Bonus Jimmy Stewart - Winchester '73!

I had mentioned when discussing James Stewart's radio series "The Six Shooter" that the actor had within the past couple of years prior adopted a somewhat grittier persona in a series of westerns beginning with "Winchester '73" in 1950.

"Winchester '73" happens to be one of my favorite movies ever and I like his characterization of Lin McAdam, the protagonist, a lot.

The Britt Ponset character from "The Six Shooter" makes me think that's what Lin McAdam would be like if he rode around having adventures. A pleasant fellow with a strong moral compass who doesn't look for trouble but does what he needs to do.

To his credit as an actor, Jimmy Stewart did not bring that same characterization to every western he made. In fact, he's a little different in each one with multiple levels of shading.

Here's the trailer for a re-release of "Winchester '73":

Makes me want to watch it again!

I notice that Millard Mitchell doesn't get mentioned in the trailer, but I think he steals the movie as Jimmy's saddle pal High-Spade.

Unfortunately, Mitchell had passed away in 1953, which was probably before this reissue.

For more fun, here's the "Lux Radio Theater" adaptation from November 12, 1951:

Good to hear Jimmy Stewart and Stephen McNally reprising their roles from the movie and interesting to hear Julia Adams in the Shelly Winters role. Lots of solid radio actors in support, including William Conrad and Bill Johnstone.

I would say that if you haven't seen the movie yet, do so before you listen to the radio adaptation!