Il villaggio dell'uomo bianco

Westerns of the mid-18th century are uncommon, and the plot for WTRR is interesting enough: English/American colonists versus the French, both sides aided by different Native American tribes. (Of course therse are features of other Westerns of this period). Colourful camera-work and some good action towards the end, but the main characters are unconvincing, especially Jon Hall, looking every one of his 37 years and nothing like a Native American. (And "Prince" ??? Hannoc???) Sherry Moreland was almost as unbelievable as Morna, especially with the way her hair was arranged in her bath-tub scene. And Mary Castle's dresses were far too extravagant for someone on a long-term stay in a rowdy tavern - though, admittedly, her room there was very well appointed.

One point of interest was the suggestiveness early on the film when Elizabeth invited Prince Hannoc to visit her in her room - almost too suggestive for an early 1950s film. And I can endorse the plaudits already expressed for Pedro de Cordoba as Chief Shingiss - he stole many of the scenes in which he featured.

Many of the supporting cast did well enough, and it's always rewarding to see John Dehner (here almost unrecognisable in a period wig).