One of the best directed by John Ford. An emotional, humorous look at an American, played by John Wayne, going back to his native Ireland and trying to fit in with the present culture. Sensational scenery and the grand music by Victor Young support this classic among classics. Breezy and rowdy. Too beautiful to turn your back on. A great illustration of romance. The interaction between Wayne and Maureen O'Hara is magical and hard to beat.

Other classic performances are turned in by Victor McLaglen, Ward Bond and Barry Fitzgerald.

While I will admit that this is not the greatest film ever made, I would argue that it's one of the most entertaining. This, combined with lovely acting, nice directing from John Ford, a great script and fine location shooting make this a film you must see. On top of that, the film crosses several genres--with some fine romance, a bit of comedy and a lot of escapism.

The film begins with an American (John Wayne) wandering into a small Irish town. It seems that his family was originally from there and he wants to settle there. However, from the very start, an obnoxious brute (Victor McLaglen) stands in his way to buy some property and then things heat up when Wayne begins dating McLaglen's sister (Maureen O'Hara). However, this version of John Wayne doesn't just slug McLaglen--he hates violence and is hiding a secret. What's next? See the film.

Perhaps the best thing about the film is the wonderful cast of supporting characters--one of the best in Hollywood history. You have Barry Fitzgerald, Arthur Shields (Fiztgerald's real-life brother),Midred Natwick, Ward Bond and many others to provide color and a touch of the Old Country. It's thoroughly charming and sweet throughout--see this film. It's near perfection!

Granted, it mayn't be to everyone's tastes, it is quite leisurely and the picture-book view of Ireland may seem a bit rose-tinted and dated, but to me I love The Quiet Man and consider it John Wayne's best non-western movie. Wayne himself is splendid in his role, I don't think it is his best role but it is up there. In terms of acting, it isn't just Wayne who's good. Maureen O'Hara is both fiery and radiant while Barry Fitzgerald is just fantastic as the mischievous matchmaker who can't say no to a drink. The film also looks beautiful, not just the breathtaking scenery but the cosy cinematography does justice too. There's also a lovely lilting score from Victor Young, a good story, a well-above-average script and even better John Ford's wonderful direction. Overall, just wonderful, maybe not for all but it has certainly made a fan out of me. 10/10 Bethany Cox