Rio Bravo
A character-driven Western masterclass where professional duty and fragile redemption collide. Within the claustrophobic tension of a besieged jailhouse, friendship becomes the ultimate ammunition against a lawless, sun-drenched frontier.
Rio Bravo
Rio Bravo

"They fought back to back... No quarter given... No quarter asked... No way in... No way out... of Rio Bravo!"

08 March 1959 United States of America 141 min ⭐ 7.8 (1,217)
Director: Howard Hawks
Cast: John Wayne, Dean Martin, Ricky Nelson, Angie Dickinson, Walter Brennan
Western
Professionalism Redemption Male Camaraderie The Nature of Courage
Budget: $1,200,000
Box Office: $5,750,000

Rio Bravo - Movie Quotes

Memorable Quotes

Sorry don't get it done, Dude.

— John T. Chance

Context:

Said early in the film after Dude hits Chance while trying to get a drink, emphasizing that Dude must earn back his place through action, not words.

Meaning:

Encapsulates the theme of professionalism. In Chance's world, intentions and apologies matter less than results and discipline.

A game-legged old man and a drunk. That's all you got? ... That's what I got.

— Pat Wheeler and John T. Chance

Context:

A conversation between Chance and his old friend Wheeler, who is skeptical of the posse's ability to hold off Burdette's army.

Meaning:

Highlights the underdog nature of the group and Chance's acceptance of his flawed but loyal team over 'well-meaning amateurs.'

If I ever saw a man holding a bull by the tail, you're it.

— Pat Wheeler

Context:

Wheeler describing Chance's impossible situation of holding Joe Burdette in a town surrounded by his brother's hired killers.

Meaning:

A metaphor for a man in a precarious and dangerous situation where letting go is just as dangerous as holding on.

Hey sheriff, you forgot your pants.

— Feathers

Context:

Said to Chance as he leaves her room after a night of tension and implied intimacy.

Meaning:

A playful line that humanizes the stoic hero and signals the romantic and comedic subversion of the traditional tough-guy Western lead.