The Shootist is a 1976 Western film directed by Don Siegel and starring John Wayne in his final film role. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Glendon Swarthout.
John Bernard Brooks, played by John Wayne, is a renowned gunfighter who has retired from his violent life and is now dying from cancer. He travels to Carson City, Nevada, to seek treatment from his old friend, Dr. Hostetler, played by James Stewart. While in Carson City, Brooks stays at a boarding house run by a widow named Bond Rogers, played by Lauren Bacall, and her son Gillom, played by Ron Howard.
Brooks initially tries to keep his identity a secret, but when some local thugs discover who he is, they challenge him to a showdown. Brooks manages to defend himself, but he realizes that he can no longer outrun his past. He decides to face his fate and die with dignity, but before he can do so, he must deal with the thugs who are still after him.
As Brooks prepares for his final battle, he teaches Gillom some valuable lessons about life and gunfighting. When the final showdown comes, Brooks shows that he is still a skilled and deadly gunfighter. In the end, however, he is mortally wounded but dies with honor and respect.
The Shootist is a poignant and powerful film that explores the themes of aging, mortality, and redemption. John Wayne's performance is particularly memorable, as he brings a depth and complexity to his character that is rare in Western films. The film has since become a classic in the genre and is considered one of Wayne's finest performances.