McQ

McQ is a 1974 American neo-noir action thriller directed by John Sturges starring cinema legend John Wayne, Eddie Albert, and Diana Muldaur. Known for his iconic roles in Westerns, Wayne steps into contemporary urban action in this engaging film, playing the unheeded detective role with the same grit and gravitas he brought to the open plains.

In McQ, Wayne plays the titular role of Lieutenant Lon McHugh, a grizzled and seasoned detective of the Seattle Police Department known simply as McQ. This film situates Wayne in a world far removed from the conventional Western frontier. The dusty trails are replaced by the gritty streets of 1970s Seattle, while horses are swapped out for fast cars and high-powered boats, but Wayne’s characterization of McQ retains the rough-around-the-edges charm that is reminiscent of his roles from the glory days of the Western genre.

The story is set into motion with the brutal murder of McQ’s best friend, fellow officer Stan Boyle (played by William Bryant). The circumstances of Boyle’s murder hint at an intricate conspiracy, somber, labyrinthine, and ridden with deceit. Rather than being deterred, McQ delves deeper into the case, driven by a burning desire for vengeance and justice. This complication sets the stage for a thrilling journey through a grimy crime-infested cityscape.

What makes this film captivating is the deft way it plunges the viewer into a journey filled with high-stakes action sequences, violent confrontations, and gripping car chases, all while maintaining a steady narrative progression. Layered within these elements of raw action and machismo is a more grounded emotional arch that delves into love, loyalty, and betrayal.

Standing opposite Wayne’s McQ is Eddie Albert who flawlessly plays Captain Ed Kosterman. Kosterman manifests as a perfect antagonist against McQ's bulldozer approach to detective work. His portrayal is both cunning and complex, offering a perfect balance to McQ’s relentless pursuit. Diana Muldaur lends her acting prowess to the film as Lois, a potential love interest for McQ and an important element in the film's emotional fabric. Her role adds a nuanced romantic shade to the otherwise hardened visage of the film.

Director John Sturges, well-known for his work on The Magnificent Seven and The Great Escape, brings his expert hand to McQ, crafting an intricate narrative from the layers of the criminal underworld. Sturges' direction feels both powerful and meticulous as he paints an enthralling portrayal of the grimy underbelly of a crime-infested metropolis. The cinematography adds a layer of aesthetic brilliance to the narrative structure by realistically capturing 70s Seattle - its streets, its people, and its haunting beauty.

Amidst a landscape populated with ruthless criminals, corrupt cops, and conniving individuals, McQ emerges as a beacon of unabashed justice, anchored by an unforgettable performance from John Wayne. His traditional charisma and screen presence are unaffected by the contemporary setting and he manages to carry this police drama with the same dedication that he applied to his prior roles within the Western genre.

The film's action sequences are another area where it truly shines. The car chases stand out due to their high-octane energy and intricately choreographed stunts. The gun fights are both thrilling and appear realistic which assists in delivering a more engaging viewing experience.

Finally, it's important to note McQ's subversion of some traditional action-thriller tropes. While it enjoys its high octane sequences, the film never loses sight of the human element, ensuring that the characters' motivations and emotional journeys are integral to the narrative.

In summary, McQ is an exciting combination of a neo-noir action thriller with underpinnings of a traditional detective mystery. The film successfully merges these elements into a cohesive and memorable piece of cinema. This film offers John Wayne fans a fresh take on his acting repertoire while upholding the quintessential hero persona that the audience has grown to love. Whether you're a fan of the Duke, action thrillers, or neo-noir dramas, McQ is a must-watch for its enticing blend of crime, action, and emotional undertones.