Watch The Last of the Mohicans

The Last of the Mohicans is a silent historical drama from 1920, adapted from James Fenimore Cooper's renowned 1826 novel of the same name. This adaptation is one of the earliest cinematic renditions of the classic American literature. Directed by Clarence Brown and Maurice Tourneur, the movie offers a compelling tale set during the French and Indian War in the mid-18th century, a time when British and French forces battled for control of the North American territories, with various Native American tribes aligning with either side.

The story is brought to life by a talented cast that includes Wallace Beery, Barbara Bedford, and Alan Roscoe, among others. Wallace Beery, known for his eclectic array of character roles, portrays Mauga, a Native American character pivotal to the unfolding events. Barbara Bedford plays Cora Munro, one of the two daughters of an English Colonel, and Alan Roscoe takes on the role of Uncas, the last descendent of the Mohican tribe.

Set amidst the rugged wilderness of the American frontier, the narrative follows the journey of the British Colonel's daughters, Cora and Alice Munro, as they attempt to reach their father's fort. Wide scenic shots of untamed landscapes and forests reflect the perilous setting of their journey, which is fraught with danger at every turn.

As the sisters travel through hostile territory, they find themselves in a precarious position – caught between the warring factions and the treacherous landscape. The intensity of war looming in the backdrop adds a layer of urgency to the plot, creating a setting where alliances are fragile, and survival is far from guaranteed.

The movie explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and the clash of cultures during a formative period in American history. It delves into the complex relationships between the colonists, the British and French armies, and the Indigenous populations, who are often caught in the crossfire of colonial aspirations.

Beery's character, Mauga, is a complex figure who embodies the tensions existing between the different inhabitants of the frontier. Cora's character, played by Bedford, brings a sense of resilience and determination to the screen, as she navigates the treacherous path to her father. Roscoe's portrayal of Uncas places the Mohican tribal identity at the fore, reflecting the honor and tragedy that accompanies being the last of his kind.

The casting of the story's Native American characters led to a mix of authenticity and the typical Hollywood casting practices of the era, which often did not employ Indigenous actors in Indigenous roles. Nevertheless, The Last of the Mohicans attempts to engage with the Native American experience, even as it reflects the perspectives and limitations of its time.

The film is noted for its impressive production values, with director Maurice Tourneur's cinematic approach highlighting expansive exterior shots that create a sense of grandeur and authenticity—a feat that is all the more impressive given the movie's silent film format. The absence of spoken dialogue is effectively compensated by expressive performances, intertitles, and a robust musical score that would have accompanied screenings to guide audiences through the emotional landscape of the story.

Silent films relied heavily on visual storytelling, and The Last of the Mohicans makes excellent use of this medium. The dramatic use of light and shadow, combined with intricate set designs and costumes, envelope the viewer in the atmosphere of 18th century America. Careful attention to period details and the fidelity to the source material help to engross viewers in the historical narrative.

The Last of the Mohicans from 1920 is not only an adaptation of a significant piece of literature but also a film that showcases the early days of American cinema's engagement with historical epics. While modern audiences might find the pacing and style quite different from contemporary films, The Last of the Mohicans offers a window into the cinematic techniques and storytelling methods of the silent film era.

For those interested in the evolution of film, the development of American cultural narratives on screen, or simply a classic tale of adventure and drama, The Last of the Mohicans from 1920 serves as a fascinating historical artifact and a piece of cinematic history. It is an early example of how film can capture the essence of a nation's cultural memory, as well as an instance of storytelling that transcends the era in which it was created, drawing on universal themes of human conflict, nature's untamed power, and the indomitable human spirit.

The Last of the Mohicans is a 1920 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.