The Westerner 1940 French Grande

This is a French Grande (39.5"x 58") poster for the 1940 American Western film The Westerner, titled Le Cavalier du Désert in France.

Directed by William Wyler and produced by Samuel Goldwyn, the film is a classic of the genre, known for its strong performances and cinematography. It is loosely based on the real-life historical figure Judge Roy Bean.

Set in 19th-century Texas, the story follows a drifter named Cole Harden (Gary Cooper) who is arrested for horse theft and brought before the corrupt, self-appointed "hanging judge" Roy Bean (Walter Brennan). Harden narrowly escapes execution by exploiting the judge's obsessive infatuation with the famous stage actress Lily Langtry, claiming to be her close friend. An unlikely bond forms between the two men, but their friendship is tested when Harden sides with local homesteaders against the violent cattle ranchers supported by the judge. The conflict eventually leads to a final showdown between the two.

Walter Brennan won his record-setting third Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Judge Roy Bean. The film is highly regarded for its "deep focus" cinematography by Gregg Toland and its sophisticated character dynamics.

Stone Litho, Linen backed.