Big Jim McLain

Synopsis

In the film Big Jim McLain, John Wayne stars as a tough and determined investigator on a mission to uncover communist activities in Hawaii during the Cold War. Tasked with identifying and apprehending subversive elements, McLain faces various challenges and adversaries in his pursuit of justice. As tensions rise and suspicions escalate, McLain must navigate a maze of deceit and betrayal to protect his country and uphold the ideals he holds dear. Filled with action, intrigue, and moral dilemmas, Big Jim McLain is a gripping thriller that showcases Wayne's iconic charisma and commanding presence on screen.

Cast

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  John Wayne

  Jim McLain

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  Nancy Olson

  Nancy Vallon

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  James Arness

  Mal Baxter

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  Alan Napier

  Sturak

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  Veda Ann Borg

  Madge

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  Hans Conried

  Robert Henried

Reviews

Critics have mixed opinions on Big Jim McLain. While some appreciate the film's portrayal of Cold War paranoia and its patriotic messaging, others find it to be heavy-handed and one-dimensional. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a Critics Score of 47% based on 15 reviews, with an average rating of 5.4/10. IMDb rates the movie at 5.1/10. Some reviewers praise John Wayne's performance and the film's fast-paced action sequences, while others criticize its simplistic view of political ideologies. Despite its flaws, Big Jim McLain remains a noteworthy entry in Wayne's filmography, offering a glimpse into the fervent anti-communist sentiments of the era.