In Howard Hawks's film "Rio Bravo," many characteristics heavily resemble and help define the movie as a Western-genre film. There are some, though very few, differences in the movie that do not resemble the normal Western archetype, but in general, "Rio Bravo" screams Western.
Similarities seen between most Westerns and "Rio Bravo" would be that they both share the same central theme; that is, a conflict between civilized order (John Wayne and Dean Martin), and the lawless frontier (John Russell and Claude Akins). Another similarity would be that both tell tales of morality, in this case that justice and the good will prevail over the unjust and wicked. The Dude and Sheriff Chance defeat the Burdette brothers, even though outnumbered, because they fight for what is right. The scenery and imagery are also similar to Westerns, because the movie takes place in Texas in the Wild West, and has a plethora of shots of saloons, horses, cowboys & their hats, six-shooter revolvers, etc.
The differences, however, are not as numerous as the prior mentioned similarities. "Rio Bravo's" main character John Chance does not ride into town as a wanderer or nomad, but rather is the sheriff and wishes to keep his town safe and full of justice. Also, John Chance never rescues a damsel in distress. He does fall in love with a beautiful woman, Feathers, but she is not as dainty as she appears, helping Chance fend of the lawless whenever possible.
Overall, "Rio Bravo" proved to follow the Western-genre archetype, despite the few differences listed above. Even though Westerns have existed since the late 19th century, Hawks's movie proves that the Western film style is still very strong, as well as incredibly recognizable.
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