It looks bigger than it actually is but this telling of the Custer legend is a fascinating blend of history and histrionics. Many highly talented names are associated with this production to add worthy interest - Robert Siodmak as director, Philip Yordan as producer, Robert Shaw as Custer, Kieron More as Dull Knife (his last feature after becoming a charity worker), Mary Ure as Mrs Custer along with a list of other capable names in support roles. Perhaps this is the story the writers wanted to be closer to the facts? Who can tell any longer where the facts lie in this tale that has been mythicised within history and legend. Producer Yordan certainly has written many notable screenplays for major movies (King of Kings '61 ~ El Cid '61 ~ The Harder They Fall 56' - a long list...) It's also noteworthy for the suggestion that the Indans were pushed beyond endurance by many broken treaties - also that Custer vocally detested machine warfare - putting him at odds with the war ministry and railroad. Maybe it suffers by having been made in Spain? But, it's obvious that budget was certainly lacking for some aspects & the Cinerama widescreen 'effects' at times, were given more than their share of screen time (with the flume ride faring best). Given all this, it still manages to maintain a decent level of curiosity value.
A big plus is supplied by Brazilian born/American Composer Bernardo Segall's powerful music score (a now rare and sought after sound track) These themes are marvellously orchestrated and can be (and are) played as melodic military march, descriptive action themes, and equally moving piano and orchestra soliloquy. The movie is a little long (and also exists in a cut version) but there are certainly far worse movies on this subject out there.