Continuity mistake: In the scene where John Wayne picks up the red box of money he lifts it onto his back and walks to an open door. As he goes out the door the camera moves to outside and we see John Wayne come out of the building. Now the red box is completely on his shoulder, rather than his back.
Big Jake (1971)
Plot summary
Directed by: John Wayne, George Sherman
Starring: John Wayne, Richard Boone, Maureen O'Hara, Patrick Wayne, Bruce Cabot
The movie opens with the kidnapping of eight-year-old Little Jake McCandles, the grandson of Martha McCandles. The kidnappers, led by John Fain, demand a $1 million ransom in exchange for the safe return of the boy. Martha and her estranged husband, Jacob "Big Jake" McCandles, are informed of the abduction.
Big Jake, a tough and skilled cowboy who left his family years ago, is reluctant to get involved at first but realises it's up to him to save his grandson. He joins forces with his two sons, James and Michael, and a ragtag group of his old trusted friends to rescue Little Jake. They set off on horseback, riding towards Mexico, where Fain's gang is believed to have taken the boy.
On their journey, the group face various challenges and dangerous encounters. They cross paths with a group of bandits who attempt to take their horses, but Big Jake and his crew easily defeat them. The group then reaches a small town where they obtain information about Fain's hideout. Realizing Fain has a reputation for ruthlessness and that a full frontal attack would be suicidal, Big Jake devises a plan to surprise and outsmart the gang.
As they approach Fain's hideout, the group splits up to surround the compound. Big Jake and his sons infiltrate the hideout and locate Little Jake, who is being held captive in a shack guarded by Fain's men. In a daring and action-packed sequence, Big Jake fights his way through the guards, showcasing his skills and bravery. He rescues his grandson, but Fain manages to escape.
With the boy safe, the group sets out to pursue Fain. They track him through the Mexican wilderness, enduring harsh conditions. Along the way, they encounter a group of native people, who initially distrust them but eventually provide assistance.
The pursuit leads them to another confrontation with Fain and his remaining henchmen. Big Jake and his sons, with the support of their friends, engage in a fierce shootout. After a thrilling battle, Big Jake finally confronts Fain face to face. In an intense duel, Big Jake outmatches Fain and ultimately kills him.
With the threat eradicated, Big Jake, his sons, and Little Jake return to their family ranch. The movie concludes with a touching reunion between Big Jake and Martha, hinting at the possibility of reconciliation. Meanwhile, Little Jake is embraced by his family, grateful for his safe return.
More mistakes in Big Jake
Martha McCandles: I was wrong. You haven't changed, have you, Jacob McCandles?
Jacob 'Big Jake' McCandles: Not one bit.
Question: At the beginning of the move it is established that Big Jake has not seen his sons for 10 years, but it appears he is close enough geographically to be found, summoned and arrive before the bad guys can get more than a days' ride away from the ranch. Was he really that bad of a dad or is his arrival at the ranch a bit too magical?
Answer: It doesn't help explain locating Big Jake or time involved, but as to helping some with the quickness of him coming to help, remember he came in on a train, he didn't ride back home.
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Answer: He has been gone for 10 years but knows "Juan and the little boy", not 10 years old I assume.