![]() Nugent ~ two writers also known for their screenplays. This beautiful woman also had a tragically short career, both Chandler and Darnell died within months of the same age (Chandler only 42 through Medical 'misadventure' ~ Darnell 41 following a house fire) The original story is above average (founded on some historical facts) it was co-written by Curtis Kenyon and Frank S. Linda Darnell is convincing as the sole female lead and the reason for her character to be in this situation is fully believable. The cast is good right down to the support players. ![]() Cornel Wilde, does what Wilde does best, and Cotton is reliable as always. The wonderful use of quality black and white stock, evokes the visual poetry of a John Ford classic. The powerful on-location settings, featuring low horizon shots and huge dramatic sky scape's, dwarf the humans as they strive to survive this hostile environment. I was surprised that Fox did not use Techicolor for this outdoor epic, but pleased they did not. Helping Mr Wise is another multi Award winner, Director of Photography: Leon Shamroy. For me, Multi Award winning Director Robert Wise has always been a favorite, and this western is further proof of his skillful hand. His performance as an embittered commanding officer in this film is a powerful one. ![]() It seems his Universal International years may have sold him short. Not having before seen Jeff Chandler take a lead role in an 'A' grade feature (and this being quite early in his tragically short career) I had not realised he was such a professional performer. For it's year, it's a surprise in both story elements and production handling. After noting the impressive cast and behind the scenes crew, just had to take a look. When my Brother in Law asked me if I wanted to see this film, I hesitated, expecting another run-of-the-mill Cavalry show. You only have to look at the production credits to see that this western has the promise of being an above average yarn.
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