The film’s focus is really on the Duke's persona, you know. When her father is murdered, Mattie Ross feels intense anger and wants retribution. She looks for Rooster Cogburn because of his tough reputation, and with the help of Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, they set out to find the killer. It’s not an exaggeration to say that John Wayne has been in better movies and given stronger performances than he did here, earning his Academy Award. Still, few people who had followed his career would have argued against him receiving such a prestigious acting honor. True Grit is a very enjoyable film that, ultimately, centers just as much on Wayne's image as it does on the story of revenge. Dealing with health problems late in his career, Wayne gives a gentle and unassuming performance as Cogburn. With an eye patch covering one eye, Rooster Cogburn is someone you can’t help but like, and that has a lot to do with Wayne’s distinctive acting style. Kim Darby's energetic portrayal of Mattie Ross enhances True Grit, and the connection between her and Wayne feels genuine and heartfelt, forming the film's emotional center as both characters rely on each other without realizing it. It nearly didn't happen for Darby though; Mia Farrow was originally wanted for the role but, following advice from Robert Mitchum, turned down the part, something she reportedly regretted throughout her life. Glen Campbell doesn’t fare so well as LaBoeuf, seeming to overact and becoming difficult to take seriously, even when things are lighthearted. Robert Duvall handles the villain's role but doesn't quite manage to connect with it, while the rest of the cast mostly fill out the background. Fortunately, director Henry Hathaway handled the filming skillfully; he and his excellent cinematographer Lucien Ballard lovingly capture Wayne and all that represents him in this movie. So what could have been a routine chase-the-bad guy story becomes something of a character study instead. 8/10

Source on TMDB