This doorway pose at the end was done as a tribute to Harry Carey Sr. The same doorway opened the film, the scene presents the visual motif of the framed doorway and threshold between the two worlds. The interior area in the cabin represents civilized values and the settled family. The brilliant, glaring, sunny outdoor area represents the savage and threatening land of the western frontier loner and the opposition between civilization (exemplified by homes, caves, and other domestic interiors) and the untamed frontier wilderness. Per the previously linked review.
That’s a great shot and the review on it is right on.
His acting role in the Searchers reminded me a little of his role in Red River but in the Searchers a much better performance by Wayne and much better movie.
