MovieChat Forums > Apache (1954) Discussion > its no Geronimo (possible SPOILERS)

its no Geronimo (possible SPOILERS)

posted 17 years ago by courtjes
3 replies | jump to latest

I realize this movie is over 5 decades old but couldnt the casting director find some real Native Americans?
Burt just doesnt make it as an Apache.
And there isnt enough history to understand why there is such hatred for the "white eyes." The movie Geronimo filmed in 1993 has of course the technology advances. But technology aside, at least the narrative in that film brings out the conflict and stories. In Apache its an unrealistic actor, major poetic license how he can get into a fort, cause all kinds of damage and get away.
Jean Peters looks like a 90's chick, though. She looks good. Thats partly because she has the long Indian hairpiece, otherwise she might have looked like Leave it To Beavers mom.
I am looking for a good Western that like the book Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee is factual and gives the Indian perspective.
I guess I am missing whatever it is Apache is trying to do. There is no real story, the acting is wooden. Even if they had technology, it would still fail.
Lancaster just wanted to show his muscles most likely.

[–] paulbrasch 16 years ago

You've completely misunderstood this film. Geronimo is a lot of crap. Lancaster gives a good account of himself and the pride of the Apache.
The acting is good and the story ends with hope.
Have another look and hopefully you'll change your mind about this underrated film

[–] NoelCT 16 years ago

Yes, the story ends with hope ... because the studio cut out the last few moments where he was shot and killed.

To the OP, there were real Native Americans in the cast. They were all standing in the background while poorly made-up white actors had all the speaking roles.

Now, in their defense, both Burt Lancaster and director Robert Aldrich were less than pleased with the final project, which lead to them re-teaming for ULZANA'S RAID, which basically tells the same story. It's quite a bit better and I recommend checking it out.

As for APACHE, you should really track down the original novel, BRONCO APACHE, by Paul Wellman. It's much more of an epic odyssey as this lone Apache warrior crosses through the white-man's territory (and a brief side-trip to Mexico) in pursuit of his homeland.

[–] spookyrat1 9 years ago

... which lead to them re-teaming for ULZANA'S RAID, which basically tells the same story.

...with Burt in the scout role this time. Yes, it's a much better, more exciting film than this rather confused piece.🐭