The Shootist Jack Pulford was shot in the back by Books, and Books, in turn, was shot by Gillom; Wayne maintained that over his entire film career, he had never shot an adversary in the back, and would not do so now. He also objected to his character being shot by Gillom, and suggested that the bartender do it, because "no one could ever take John Wayne in a fair fight". Wayne was also responsible for many casting decisions. Several friends and past co-stars, including Bacall, Stewart, Boone, and Carradine, were cast at his request. Stewart had not worked in films for
Red River (1948 film) years before, because he has earned it. "Red River" was filmed in 1946, copyrighted in 1947, but not released until September 30, 1948. Footage from "Red River" was later incorporated into the opening montage of Wayne's last film, "The Shootist", to illustrate the backstory of Wayne's character. The film was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Film Editing (Christian Nyby) and Best Writing, Motion Picture Story (Borden Chase). John Ford—who worked with Wayne on many films (such as "Stagecoach", "The Searchers" and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance")—was so impressed with Wayne's performance that he is reported to have said,