Big Jake (1971, PG-13)

Only a little needs to be said about Big Jake.  It's a standard issue John Wayne flick that ups the ante mainly by being substantially more entertaining then most Wayne westerns.  It's lightweight Western adventure entertainment that is quite forgettable once the movie ends.  It was criticized for having a stronger focus on violence and shootouts then other Wayne outings.  I found myself entertained by the humor, the likeable good guys, and the well-done shootouts.  So Big Jake makes for an entertaining western.  That doesn't mean it's a great one.

Directed by George Sherman.

                               *** ½ /5