A smallpox epidemic among the Blackhawk Indians results in war between the white man and the natives, particularly Michael Dante's title character in this complex, frequently flawed but mesmerizing western set in the snowy north where one of the survivors of a Pacific shipwreck in a cold TV series shows that she's got more to show than just being sweet and pretty and funny. Dawn Wells must have definitely impressed her coworkers and fans by playing the brave white woman who is kidnapped by Winterhawk and becomes a sympathetic witness to his cause. She is subtle and strong, narrating the film, with her calm speaking voice commanding every moment as she seeks to protect her brother and somehow survived her ordeal.
There are some moments where the story becomes a bit perplexing, but this is a perplexing period of History so that's okay. Such great character actors of the '60s and '70s like Leif Erickson, Woody Strode and Denver Pyle offer very complex performances, sometimes doing rather unethical things, and the result is a beautiful film that manages to impress because of its emotional power and very moral tale. Wells rarely had a chance to show what she could do dramatically and is completely mesmerizing to watch. Sacheen Littlefeather, who made Oscar history by showing up at the awards to refuse Marlon Brando's award, has a small role. The beautiful photography and moving musical score are added pluses. Quite powerful in a beautifully quiet way.
There are some moments where the story becomes a bit perplexing, but this is a perplexing period of History so that's okay. Such great character actors of the '60s and '70s like Leif Erickson, Woody Strode and Denver Pyle offer very complex performances, sometimes doing rather unethical things, and the result is a beautiful film that manages to impress because of its emotional power and very moral tale. Wells rarely had a chance to show what she could do dramatically and is completely mesmerizing to watch. Sacheen Littlefeather, who made Oscar history by showing up at the awards to refuse Marlon Brando's award, has a small role. The beautiful photography and moving musical score are added pluses. Quite powerful in a beautifully quiet way.