Watch Apache
- Approved
- 1954
- 1 hr 31 min
-
6.3 (5,032)
In the American West during the mid-1800s, tensions between white settlers and Native American tribes are high. Apache is a 1954 Western film, directed by Robert Aldrich and starring Burt Lancaster, Jean Peters, and John McIntire. Set against this backdrop of conflict, Apache tells the story of Massai, played by Lancaster, a proud Apache warrior who remains loyal to his tribal customs and traditions.
The film opens with Massai and his close friend, Hondo, returning to their village after a successful raid on a group of white settlers. They are greeted with joy and celebration, but Massai's happiness is short-lived. Soon after, the U.S. Cavalry attacks, killing many of the Apache people and taking Massai and Hondo captive. They are brought to a nearby fort, where it is clear that they will be treated as prisoners of war.
At the fort, Massai quickly becomes a thorn in the side of the military leadership. He is proud and defiant, refusing to bend to the will of his captors. He is particularly enraged by the fact that he and his fellow prisoners are treated as animals, kept in cages and herded like cattle. His determination to remain true to his people and his culture is matched only by his desire for freedom.
Despite being offered the chance to assimilate into white society and live in peace with his captors, Massai refuses to abandon his heritage. He escapes from the fort and goes on the run, with the U.S. Army hot on his heels. Along the way, he meets and befriends a woman, played by Jean Peters, who sympathizes with his plight and offers him aid. Despite the odds against him, Massai remains resolute in his quest for freedom.
The film's climax takes place at an abandoned fort, where Massai has taken refuge. He is tracked there by the Army, and a battle ensues. Massai, vastly outnumbered, fights valiantly against the soldiers, using his knowledge of the terrain to his advantage. In the end, however, he is captured once again and brought back to the fort.
The movie ends on a bittersweet note, as Massai realizes that his quest for freedom may be futile. Despite his determination and his fierce warrior spirit, the forces of history and civilization may be too great for him to overcome. In this way, the film becomes a meditation on the clash of cultures and the sacrifices made by those who are caught in the middle.
Apache is an intense and gripping film, with a strong sense of historical accuracy and attention to detail. The performances are excellent, particularly those of Burt Lancaster and Jean Peters. Lancaster, in particular, imbues Massai with a sense of stoicism and strength that is truly remarkable. The movie's themes of cultural conflict and individual freedom make it a thought-provoking and deeply moving experience.
In conclusion, Apache is a classic Western film that has stood the test of time. Its focus on the personal struggles and sacrifices made by the characters makes it a powerful and affecting work of cinema. For those interested in Westerns or historical dramas, Apache is a must-see film.
Apache is a 1954 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.