Remaking a classic is fraught with danger. Picking a classic that features an iconic legend and is from a genre that isn't that popular today increases the risks tenfold.

Yet somehow the Coen brothers have managed to produce a winner with True Grit.

The story is relatively simple. A young girl seeks justice for the murder of her father at the hands of an employee named Tom Chaney. She makes it clear she'll settle for revenge as, thwarted by jurisdiction and apathetic lawmen, she hires Rooster Cogburn - a US Marshall with a reputation for being both ruthless and an alcoholic.

They're joined by a LaBoeuf a Texas ranger (Matt Damon) who is also seeking Chaney for a crime committed in Texas. 

The ever-changing dynamic between the three makes for riveting viewing and it's this strong characterization that allows the film to shine. The fate of Chaney is almost incidental in this tale of revenge and what it costs.

Hailee Standfield delivers a very strong performance as Mattie Ross providing a strong feminine lead unwilling to bend to the law or her alpha male companions. She's aptly supported by Jeff Bridges who, as Cogburn, goes from disliking the girl to becoming protective of her. 

Matt Damon plays the oafish and self-important LaBoeuf well but it's questionable why the Coens decided to portray this character in such a two-dimensional light. The original 1969 film featured him as an overbearing Texas ranger but one with redeeming qualities.

It's difficult to not compare to the '69 version but to be honest the new version is slicker, more efficient and obviously makes use of modern humor and context which means it will be a winner with the crowd. Much of the dialogue is identical with subtle delivery differences but interestingly the most noticeable change is the eye patch of Rooster Cogburn: John Wayne covered his left eye, Bridges his right.

Bridges doesn't compare to John Wayne and you might wish for subtitles during some of his mumbling scenes but he is still a very likable anti-hero.

The strong lead, modern delivery and humour and classic storyline means you don't need to like Westerns to enjoy this slick affair. Only die-hard fans of the original might have cause for complaint.