This story about the rough and tumble fur trappers who traversed Indian lands to ply their trade stars Clark Gable, supported by a strong cast. With a voice over that was added in post-production to add more depth to this film, it fairly realistically portrays existence in the western territories before the invasion of white civilization.
The scenery is beautiful, with vistas that show winding rivers stretching to the horizon and majestic mountains towering over forests and plains. The natives and their society are portrayed with respect, though one scene shows a scalping. This was undoubtedly added to help delineate the Indians who were aligned with Iron Shirt, who is effectively the villain of the story.
Though Gable was not feeling or looking his best for this film, the story is charming enough to be enjoyable. It includes moments of humor and a love story that is unique and touching. I particularly enjoyed the use of language in this film--English, French and Indian tongues combined.
Gable still had other noteworthy films ahead of him when this film was released, including "Mogambo" (1953), "Teacher's Pet" (1958), and "The Misfits" (1961).
The scenery is beautiful, with vistas that show winding rivers stretching to the horizon and majestic mountains towering over forests and plains. The natives and their society are portrayed with respect, though one scene shows a scalping. This was undoubtedly added to help delineate the Indians who were aligned with Iron Shirt, who is effectively the villain of the story.
Though Gable was not feeling or looking his best for this film, the story is charming enough to be enjoyable. It includes moments of humor and a love story that is unique and touching. I particularly enjoyed the use of language in this film--English, French and Indian tongues combined.
Gable still had other noteworthy films ahead of him when this film was released, including "Mogambo" (1953), "Teacher's Pet" (1958), and "The Misfits" (1961).