Becoming John Wayne

Becoming John Wayne explores the early westerns of John Wayne, from his first starring role in the 1930 epic The Big Trail through his breakthrough role as the Ringo Kid in John Ford’s 1939 classic Stagecoach. This book argues that it was during these 1930s westerns that Marion Michael Morrison transformed from a prop man for the movie studios into the John Wayne film persona that became world famous. He did that by using the decade to improve his acting skills, developing his ability to handle stunts, and becoming an expert horseman.

"An interesting read." — Screentrade Magazine (2018)

Larry Powell is a professor of communication studies at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. He is the author or co-author of several books and articles.Jonathan H. Amsbary is a professor of communication studies at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. He is author of a number of books and articles on communication dynamics and is lifelong fan of Western movies.