Tomahawk

Following the critical acclaim for 1950's Broken Arrow, Hollywood sought to present the native American in a more positive light. But, as this tale of betrayal and slaughter shows, old habits die hard and, even though director George Sherman emphasises the treachery of various soldiers, traders and politicians, the Sioux are once again depicted as savage warriors. Peace-loving scout Van Heflin reveals a more liberal attitude (when not distracted by showgirl Yvonne De Carlo and Sioux maiden Susan Cabot), but even he is more interested in the firepower of the new breach-loading rifle than race relations. Despite the attempt at a psychological level, the climactic battle betrays the movie's allegiance to the matinée B.