Chisum (1970)

John Wayne stars as cattle baron John Chisum in this sweeping account of the Lincoln County War. Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, the film frames the conflict through the eyes of the establishment, portraying Chisum as a principled patriarch battling corruption and defending his empire. Billy the Kid (Geoffrey Deuel) appears as a volatile young man caught in the crossfire of larger political and economic struggles. Rooted in the traditions of the Western, Chisum celebrates American enterprise while acknowledging the violent costs of progress.

This screening is part of our series Dead or Alive: Billy the Kid at the Movies, held in conjunction with the exhibition The Resurrection of Billy the Kid.

Film historian and author, Michael F. Blake, will introduce the film and lead a post-screen discussion with the audience.

Program Info:

Wednesday, October 15, 2025
2 p.m.
1 hour 51 minutes
Rated G
FREE for Museum Members (Members, log-in first to reserve tickets)
FREE with Museum Admission
$10 for just the program