The Shootist poster
Director Don Siegel
Screenplay Scott Hale, Miles Hood Swarthout

The Shootist

Tagline: He's got to face a gunfight once more to live up to his legend once more. To win just one more time.

Release Date: 1976-07-21

Duration: 100 minutes

Synopsis

Afflicted with a terminal illness John Bernard Books, the last of the legendary gunfighters, quietly returns to Carson City for medical attention from his old friend Dr. Hostetler. Aware that his days are numbered, the troubled man seeks solace and peace in a boarding house run by a widow and her son. However, it is not Books' fate to die in peace, as he becomes embroiled in one last valiant battle.

Casting

  • John Wayne
    J.B. Books
  • James Stewart
    Dr. Hostetler
  • Ron Howard
    Gillom Rogers
  • Scatman Crothers
    Moses
  • Melody Thomas Scott
    Girl on Streetcar
  • James Nolan
    Gambler (uncredited)
  • Bill McKinney
    Jay Cobb
  • Richard Boone
    Mike Sweeney
  • Harry Morgan
    Marshall Thibido
  • Jonathan Goldsmith
    Books' Victim (uncredited)