The connection between Harry Carey’s appearance in the 1916 film and his son now portraying the injured "kid" alongside John Wayne as “Robert” and Pedro Armendàriz as "Pedro" is notable. These three characters are outlaws whose final robbery doesn't go according to plan. With the clever sheriff "Buck" (Ward Bond) on their trail, they have to find ways to escape before they run out of water. They do manage to gain some ground and reach a well, but all they find is a pregnant woman (Mildred Natwick) crying, who then gives them a godson. Still in a difficult situation and now with another person to feed, the three men must continue to avoid being caught while struggling across the desert. The film moves slowly at first, but once the relationships between the characters are established, it becomes a touching story of loyalty, perseverance, kindness, and cooperation. There are several sad events throughout, and naturally, a real baby isn't always used when they’re shown in the landscape; however, the actors, especially Armendáriz, succeed in drawing out a good deal of empathy as they journey through the harsh wilderness. The final portion didn't entirely resonate with me, but perhaps John Ford couldn't have... The cinematography is impressive and stark – it’s remarkable that these men could survive the dangers of their environment, something clearly shown by how desolate everything around them appears, and there’s a general sense of hope at the end that brings a smile. It's definitely one of Wayne’s more thoughtful movies and deserves to be seen.

Source on TMDB