The Quiet Man
This 1952 John Ford film has “The Duke” playing the lead role of Sean Thornton, an American former-boxer who travels to Ireland to reclaim his family farm and birthplace. Co-stars include Maureen O’Hara, Barry Fitzgerald, Ward Bond and Victor McLaglen. The resulting adventure includes a love battle for Mary Kate (O’Hara) and plenty of other comedic events, including an iconic and lengthy fist-fight scene. The film is noted for the lush cinematography of Ireland’s countryside and was well-received upon its release. The film won an Academy Award for Best Director and for Best Cinematography. In 1952, it was the official selection of the Venice Film Festival.