- Film Review
- Reviewed By Tony Sloman
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3 out of 5
A majestic and brooding western from director Anthony Mann, set mostly at night, that is often ignored in studies of Mann's work. In the story of three fur trappers who take jobs as cavalry scouts after losing their pelts to Indians, Mann's use of early CinemaScope is exemplary, with splendid tracking and panning shots, and there's some fascinating political commentary about the civilising of noble savage Victor Mature. A pre-The Music Man Robert Preston is excellent as a single-minded military martinet, the young Anne Bancroft shows early promise as Preston's wife, but this film also marked the beginning of the decline in co-star Guy Madison's Hollywood career. And be warned: because much of the film takes place in darkness, the action may be rather hard to follow on television. Try turning up your contrast!
Plot Summary
Western starring Victor Mature and Guy Madison. Three fur trappers, robbed of a year's supply of pelts during an Indian ambush, arrive at a cavalry outpost to take up their positions as scouts. But they soon become fearful of another attack, and fall foul of the new cavalry commander.
Cast and crew
Cast
- Jed
- Victor Mature
- Captain Riordan
- Guy Madison
- Colonel Frank Marston
- Robert Preston
- Gus
- James Whitmore
- Corinna Marston
- Anne Bancroft
- Captain Clark
- Russell Collins
- Sergeant Major Decker
- Peter Whitney
- Mungo
- Pat Hogan
- Red Cloud
- Manuel Donde
- Lieutenant Benton
- Guy Williams
Crew
- Director
- Anthony Mann
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