Apache

Apache is a 1954 Western movie that dives deep into the life of a real historical figure, Massai, the last Apache warrior. Directed by Robert Aldrich and starring the iconic Burt Lancaster, this film breaks away from the typical stereotypes of Westerns, providing a whole new angle to the genre. It focuses on the life and struggle of the American Indian tribe, specifically through the perspective of the protagonist, Massai, played by Lancaster.

The movie effectively paints the authentic and often tumultuous picture of the historic American West, complete with conflicts between the Native tribes and the U.S. cavalry. It adroitly weaves the tale of a brave Apache warrior's search for identity and survival against the backdrop of the ever-mounting pressures and notorious pursuits of the 19th century American Calvary.

Burt Lancaster, a prevalent actor of his time, steps into the shoes of the war-hardened Apache warrior named Massai. Remarkably, despite this being an unconventional role for Lancaster, his strong performance conveys the fervor and resilience of a man spurred on by his cultural heritage and desire to protect his people. Lancaster's portrayal of Massai carved a niche for himself in an array of roles that extended beyond the conventional Hollywood hero trope.

Jean Peters co-stars as Nalinle, the Apache maiden who stands by Massai with unwavering loyalty. Peters' portrayal of Nalinle is marked by her strength, grace, and the subtle nuance with which she depicts her character's multi-dimensional identity as a woman, lover, and Apache member.

John McIntire is Al Sieber, the Chief of Scouts who is handed the responsibility of handling the "Apache problem." McIntire's performance as Sieber imbues his character with a sense of intrigue that escalates as the plot progresses.

At its core, Apache is both a poignant portrayal of a resilient indigenous tribe's battle against Western incursion and the deeply personal journey of a man striving to preserve his cultural identity and tradition. The screenplay intertwines the brutal realities of warfare with a heart-wrenching narrative of struggle, resilience, defiance, and love.

The film begins with the surrender of Geronimo, but the action quickly escalates when Massai, one of the last Apache warriors yet to surrender, spurns the decision. He breaks free, flees from the train transporting him to Florida, and begins his desperate journey back to his homeland to continue his struggle for freedom against the U.S. cavalry.

The movie captures the rugged landscape of the American West, setting the stage for an epic tale. Shot in Technicolor and employing soundstaging techniques prevalent in the 1950s, Apache resonates with bold visuals and echoes the harsh realities lived by those in the American West era.

Director Robert Aldrich, recognized for his hard-hitting storytelling, handles the narrative with finesse. He takes the audience on a journey through tension-filled conflicts and intimate moments, maintaining a sharp eye on the rich cultural tapestry of the Apache tribe.

The film's theme, fussing authenticity and facts with a layer of Hollywood storytelling, seeks to challenge the viewer's perception of this historical era. Apache goes beyond the cliché cowboys and Indians battle, attempting instead to accentuate the struggles and inner turmoil individuals faced as their home was encroached upon by the economic and territorial expansion of Western society.

The narrative, laced with iconic, sometimes controversial scenes, dispels the romanticized 'noble savage' stereotype often attributed to Native Americans in popular culture. The portrayal of Apache Native-American culture, while not entirely accurate, is still to be commended for challenging the 1950s' common Western storytelling mode.

The backdrop of the movie also subtly challenges the romanticized versions of the American West with hidden criticisms of the cultural genocide conducted during U.S. expansion. The movie can be considered advanced for its time, tackling a strong, non-heroic central role unlike many of its contemporaries.

By 1954 standards, Apache is a film that attempts to delve deeper into complex issues than one would expect from a Western. Its daring storytelling combined with a spectacular cast led by Burt Lancaster ensured the movie a spot in the cinema lover's hall of fame. Apache is an intense and gripping portrayal of a warrior's relentless quest for freedom decorated with performances that make it a classic in the Western genre. However, it's important for modern audiences to recognize some historical inaccuracies, and to consider Apache as a stepping-stone towards cultural representation in Hollywood.