The Western genre has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but its enduring appeal is undeniable. From the early days of The Great Train Robbery to the modern reinventions by filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino, the genre has continually evolved. Now, one of its most revered entries, Jeremiah Johnson, is available for free on Tubi, giving audiences a chance to revisit a true classic.
Directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Robert Redford, Jeremiah Johnson (1972) is a survival thriller set in the Rocky Mountains. It tells the story of a Mexican-American War veteran who seeks solitude as a mountain man, only to be drawn back into violence when his family is threatened. The film is based on the real-life adventures of John Johnson, also known as Liver-Eating Johnson, and has been praised for its stunning cinematography and Redford's compelling performance.
Pollack, who often collaborated with Redford, is sometimes overlooked in discussions of great directors, but his work on Jeremiah Johnson is a testament to his skill. The film is considered one of the best Westerns ever made, and Redford's portrayal is often compared to the likes of Clint Eastwood's iconic roles. In fact, Quentin Tarantino has cited Redford's performance as an inspiration, particularly when casting Brad Pitt in Inglourious Basterds.
The Western genre has experienced a resurgence in recent years, with films like Dances With Wolves and Django Unchained bringing new life to the genre. Tarantino's zombie flicks and other genre explorations have kept audiences engaged, but Jeremiah Johnson remains a touchstone for many modern filmmakers. Its influence can be seen in everything from The Revenant to The Harder They Fall.
For those unfamiliar with the film, Jeremiah Johnson follows Redford's character as he learns the ways of the wilderness from an experienced trapper, Bear Claw Chris Lapp, played by Will Geer. He eventually marries an Indigenous woman, Swan, but their peaceful life is shattered when a feud with a rival tribe forces him to confront his violent past. The film's exploration of isolation, survival, and the cost of violence resonates as strongly today as it did in 1972.
Streaming on Tubi, Jeremiah Johnson is a must-watch for any fan of the Western genre. It's a film that has stood the test of time, and its availability on a free platform makes it more accessible than ever. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is a cinematic experience not to be missed.
As the Western genre continues to evolve, with new entries like Netflix's Ransom Canyon and Tarantino's complicated favorite Stagecoach also streaming, Jeremiah Johnson serves as a reminder of the genre's rich history. It's a film that deserves its place among the greats, and now you can watch it for free.
