Read the Movie discussion

Saw the Coen brothers' True Grit on Xmas Day with my family. Just finished the book. I saw the John Wayne film eons ago and don't remember it well, but I thought this film captured the author's language and themes well.

Hailee Steinfeld was remarkable as Mattie Ross. And Jeff Bridges, well, he's just. . . Jeff Bridges.

I recently read (or rather listened, as I was short of time and therefore opted for the audiobook version) True Grit in preparation for the watching the film when it comes out next month (in the UK). I have to say I was a little unfair on the novel at first until I mulled over Donna Tartt's essay included at the end. Then I realised that the issue was that Mattie and I just didn't see the world at all alike and then the whole book just hit me for the genius it is.

I'm really looking forward to the film. I had Jeff Bridges in my mind as Rooster all the way through the reading and couldn't imagine anyone else playing him.