The Shootist

John Bernard 'J.B.' Books, a seasoned lawman-turned-gunslinger, rides into Carson City, Nevada in January 1901. His arrival ignites tension as he confronts an armed robber, quickly demonstrating his legendary reflexes by disarming the attacker and leaving him wounded on the ground.

While navigating the fringes of the town, Books meets Jay Cobb, a local dairyman, and his assistant, Gillom Rogers. Gillom’s calming presence helps diffuse the tension following Books’ confrontation with the robber, setting the stage for a deeper relationship between them.

Books seeks solace at the office of Dr. E.W. 'Doc' Hostetler, the physician who previously treated his injuries. The doctor delivers a grim diagnosis: terminal cancer has invaded Books’ body, leaving him mere months to live, a revelation that weighs heavily on Books.

Desperate for a respite, Books finds temporary lodging at a quiet boarding house run by Bond Rogers, Gillom's widowed mother. Attempting to maintain a low profile, Books uses a false name, but his identity is soon discovered, prompting a rush of tension and concern from Bond.

Upon learning of Books’ true identity and terminal condition, Bond's attitude transforms from shock to compassion. She invites Books to church, hoping the experience will provide him comfort and community amid the chaos surrounding his infamous reputation.

Rumors about Books' arrival begin to spread, attracting opportunists and journalists eager for their moment. Among them is Serepta, an old flame, who offers marriage but ultimately aims to write a sensationalized biography about Books’ notorious past.

In a morbid yet practical gesture, Books orders his own headstone, inscribed with 'Books died in 1901,' but refuses the undertaker’s offer for a free funeral, fearing it would profit someone else. This act signifies his acceptance of his fate and the realities he faces.

Two assassins attempt to sneak into Books’ temporary lodging, driven by their intention to eliminate him. However, in a display of his undeniable skill, Books swiftly handles the situation, reinforcing Gillom's admiration for him amidst the growing danger.

As their bond strengthens, Books takes it upon himself to teach Gillom essential life lessons, sharing his personal code of principles. He emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and self-defense, a philosophy he imparts upon Gillom before the impending confrontation.

As Books’ birthday approaches, he prepares for a showdown against the notorious figures Mike Sweeney, Jack Pulford, and Cobb, inviting them to meet him at the Metropole Saloon. In a symbolic gesture, he passes on his cherished horse, Ole Dollar, to Gillom, signifying a legacy transfer.

On his birthday, Books enters the Metropole Saloon, where his adversaries await him. He orders whiskey to mark the occasion but tension escalates when Cobb strikes first, forcing Books to take cover behind the bar as chaos erupts in the saloon.

Using his sharp instincts, Books turns the fight in his favor by throwing a whiskey bottle at Cobb, momentarily stunning him. With the tables turned, Books skillfully eliminates Sweeney and Pulford, showcasing his unmatched marksmanship in a deadly standoff.

In the aftermath of the gunfight, Gillom rushes into the saloon to warn Books, but his urgency goes unnoticed. In a tragic twist, the bartender mistakenly fires a shotgun blast that hits Books, leaving him mortally wounded amid the chaos of the battle.

In a moment driven by grief and anger, Gillom seizes the fallen gun and confronts the bartender. As reality hits him hard, he realizes the gravity of the situation while Books simply nods, acknowledging their bond before slipping away forever.

After Books' passing, Gillom is left in despair, grappling with the loss of a mentor and father figure. As he drapes his coat over Books' body, he steps into the outside world with a heart burdened by the weight of grief, aware that his mother watches with concern.