2. True Grit (2010)
The Coen brothers' remake of the 1969 western starring John Wayne "True Grit" is a more faithful adaptation of Charles Portis eponymous 1968 novel. It tells the story of a girl seeking not revenge, but justice. Mattie Ross (Hailee Steinfeld), shows us as much true grit, if not more, as she sees in Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges). She travels some distance, by herself, to hire Cogburn to hunt down Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin). Along the way she outwits a merchant in negotiating the matter of her father's horses, belittles a Texas ranger, calling him a rodeo clown, and overall ties the story together with her charming tenacity. Why It's A Gem: This update of the 1969 film is a more accurate adaptation of Portis' story, in terms of structure, as Mattie retains the narrative focus. Among all the great performances the breakthrough is clearly given by Hailee Steinfeld, anchoring us with her relentless drive. The dialogue brilliantly contrasts the chaotic environment of the late 19th century old west, with verbal eloquence and diction. Thought not Shakespearean, there's a great poetic quality to the dialogue.