Johnny Guitar was a different "western" movie even back in 1954. Starring Joan Crawford, Sterling Hayden and Mercedes McCambridge, it is very untypical of the genre.
Although Sterling Hayden portrays the title character, — Johnny "Guitar" Logan -- he is really an observer to the action.
The film's most important and strongest characters are women.
The film was also highly regarded by critics for its allegorical qualities (some viewed it as an indictment of MyCarthyism) as well as its cinematography.
The crisp colors are going to be even more vibrant in the new release. Never before on DVD it is released this week on Blue Ray.
I remember seeing it at the local cinema back in Poplar, I was around 12 and I have to be honest Joan Crawford scared me.
I think if Joan was still around today she would still scare me.
But this movie was not just known for the movie, it had one of the most evocative, haunting theme songs ever.
Sung by the wonderful Peggy Lee. Even today one listen can become an earworm.
So to celebrate the new release, check out the song and a few clips.
Johnny Guitar - The song
Johnny Guitar arrives
A little twisted
Here comes the posse
Written by Victor Young / Peggy Lee, 1954
Play the guitar, play it again, my Johnny
Maybe you're cold, but you're so warm inside
I was always a fool for my Johnny
For the one they call Johnny Guitar
Play it again, Johnny Guitar
Whether you go, whether you stay, I love you
What if you're cruel, you can be kind I know
There was never a man like my Johnny
Like the one they call Johnny Guitar
