John Wayne is an undisputed American icon, but fans have seen little of early starting roles. Here in West of the Divide, a young Wayne is showcased brilliantly. All the essential western pieces are at work here, including villainous crooks, beautiful damsels, and gun shooting action. Where West of the Divide differs is in its difficult subject matter. Child abuse and family strife is at work in John Wayne’s youthful role. Wayne plays Ted Hayden, a man who’s looking for his father’s murderer and his long lost brother. At the same time, he must save and teach a young girl, played by the beautiful Virginia Brown Faire, about how to live honorably. This is not the sturdy and immovable Wayne of later years; and it’s fascinating to watch this great figure grow up on the screen.
