The Searchers: The Making Of An American Legend (2013) - Plot & Excerpts
This strikingly well researched non-fiction piece goes way beyond the making of the classic film to explore the deeper and flawed notion of mythmaking in our country. The prose was very accessible and the account of the real child abduction story behind the movie was just as captivating as the filmmaking. I would not recommend this to those with weak stomachs because the reports of the violence between the Commanche Indians and Texans is mortifying. I loved the theme based mostly on John Ford's thought "When legend becomes fact, print the legend." Do not always trust recorded history. Listened to this directly following Five Came Back. Very well read, but not what I was hoping for. The first 14 chapters or so detail the true story of the kidnapping of a young woman by the Comanches. While quite interesting, it goes on...and on...and on until I was nearly ready to give up. The section of the book that tells the true story is quite graphic and, sometimes, horrifying. Only for those interested in completing their understanding of the westward expansion or deep fans of Ford's film.
What do You think about The Searchers: The Making Of An American Legend (2013)?
Loved his portrayal of the Texas Indian conflicts. A bit different than the history books.
—sstewart76
Well researched and well written. Now I feel that I must see the movie again!
—Mia
