The Forgotten Gunslinger: Hidden Gems of John Wayne’s Career

John Wayne, known as the Duke, was a revered Hollywood legend who starred in over 150 films. Yet, beneath the accolades lay several forgotten works, one of which is The Barbarian and the Geisha, a film that showcased the actor's range and the eccentricities of his relationship with director John Huston.

From Stagecoach to The Barbarian and the Geisha

John Wayne's journey from a lesser-known actor in Idol of the Crowds (1937) to becoming an A-list star with Stagecoach (1939) is a testament to his talent and dedication. However, in 1958, John Wayne ventured into uncharted territories with The Barbarian and the Geisha. This film, co-starring John Huston, marked a significant but ultimately disappointing period in Wayne's career. The collaborative effort was a misfire from the very beginning, fraught with disagreements and technical setbacks.

The Duke and the Director

Director John Huston approached John Wayne for the role of Townsend Harris, the first U.S. diplomat in Japan. Huston believed Wayne's acting prowess from films such as Red River (1948) and The Searchers (1956) would translate seamlessly into this new historical character.

However, the collaboration between the star and the director was fraught with tension. Huston aimed to imbue the film with a sense of Asian rhythm, but Wayne was unable to fully embrace the character. Marie Allen, Huston's longtime script supervisor, recalls:

“For his part, Mr. Huston realized early on he’d made a mistake casting The Big Cowboy as Townsend.”

Their working relationship was marked by constant disagreements, with Huston insisting on creative liberties that made Wayne uncomfortable. Wayne's dedication to his craft was evident in his efforts to adhere to script, while Huston pushed for more improvisation, leading to a clash in their creative visions.

Behind-the-Scenes Disputes and Pioneering Roles

On-set, the tensions between Wayne and Huston were palpable. Huston's insistence on filming Wayne in non-traditional ways, such as shooting his left profile whenever possible, underscores the director's desire to capture Wayne's essence more authentically. However, Wayne's performances were hindered by Huston's unconventional approach.

One unforgettable moment on set was when Wayne and Huston came to blows. According to Allen, Wayne’s pride and Huston’s persistence created a volatile atmosphere that affected the entire production. Huston’s post-production notes reveal his frustration, as he sought to create a film that was true to his vision but was struggling to get Wayne to fit into it.

Wayne’s Early Misunderstandings

Even before his breakout role in Stagecoach, Wayne expressed discomfort with acting. In an interview, he stated, "I’m from Southern California. I’ve never been on goddam skates in my life. I was in the hospital for 2 fuckin’ weeks after that," revealing his initial struggles with physical stunts. This early discomfort with his craft may have contributed to the challenges he faced during the filming of The Barbarian and the Geisha.

Legacy and Modern Rediscovery

Despite its initial failure, The Barbarian and the Geisha has garnered new attention in recent years. Fans and scholars of John Wayne and John Huston have come to appreciate the film as a unique moment in the history of Hollywood. It stands as a testament to the complex dynamics between actors and directors and the sometimes volatile nature of film production.

Conclusion

John Wayne's career was filled with iconic films, but his collaboration with John Huston on The Barbarian and the Geisha remains a notable, if forgotten, chapter. This production serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and the creative struggles that often lie behind the scenes of a Hollywood production.