Last Of The Comanches

Last of the Comanches is a captivating western film from 1953 directed by Andre DeToth and starring the seasoned Broderick Crawford, the elegant Barbara Hale, and the up-and-coming Johnny Stewart. A production from Columbia Pictures, it's a rousing tale of survival, heroism, and the struggle against the odds in a brutal world that's constantly reshaped by conflict.

The story unfolds in the rugged post-Civil War era of 1876 Texas, where the remnants of a cruel war still echo through the region. Crawford plays a grizzled character named Sgt. Matt Trainor, an experienced frontier scout for the US Cavalry who embodies the stereotypical cynicism of a war veteran struggling with the relentless shades of his past. Trainor's world collides with that of a stagecoach carrying a group of distinct passengers through dangerous Comanche territory when he - the sole survivor from a Comanche attack on his cavalry unit - stumbles upon them.

Among the stagecoach passengers are an array of colorful characters such as a former Confederate Officer, an older woman, two saloon girls, a young boy – played by Johnny Stewart - and a news reporter. Adding to the intrigue is Barbara Hale, who portrays the mysterious and defensive character of Julia Lanning. Her enigmatic nature adds an unpredictable element to the narrative, setting her apart from the stereotypical damsels in distress often found in the genre.

The heart of this film lies in its set pieces, the primary one being an isolated desert waterhole, where the stagecoach group and Trainor reluctantly make a stand against the circling Comanche warriors. As a dwindling water supply and throbbing desert heat escalate the tension, each character is stripped down to their core, revealing their true natures and loyalty.

Throughout Last of the Comanches, director DeToth intricately weaves distinct personal stories done justice by the impressive cast. All characters have their arcs which define their evolution from strangers thrown together by coincidence, to individuals standing together against a common adversary. The relationships among the characters evolve as well, oscillating from hostility and mistrust to unexpected alliances.

Broderick Crawford's Sgt. Matt Trainor undergoes one of the most significant transformations. Initially hardened and almost indifferent to the plight of the stagecoach group, he emerges as a leader who takes under his wings the burden of survival for the entire party. Crawford's performance is nothing short of compelling; he navigates a complex character who battles not just external circumstances but also his internal demons with adeptness, bringing a multifaceted depth to his character.

Barbara Hale, as Julia Lanning, brings subtle emotional layers to a role that is deceptively complex. She maintains a tough exterior, adjusting to a dangerous environment, even as she wrestles with an internal turbulence that gradually hints at a more sensitive, vulnerable side. Her performance adds a nuanced complexity to the narrative as we did not often see such strong female characters in a western genre at that time.

Johnny Stewart as Jim Starbuck, the young stowaway, proves himself indispensable by tapping into his innate courage and resilience, filling the role with an innocence and strength belying his tender age.

Last of the Comanches displays a high production value, complete with a dramatic score, grand western landscapes, and attention to historical details, which compound its narrative and visual appeal. It’s a western noteworthy for its portrayal of human character under extreme conditions, exploring themes of leadership, bravery, respect, friendship, and the capacity for change.

Stirring performances, gripping storytelling, and the desolate beauty of the desert landscape, not to mention the nuanced exploration of complex themes, make Last of the Comanches a must-see film for anyone with an interest in the western genre. It might not be your typical cowboy and Indians story, but it brings so much more to the table, setting itself apart through its depth and authenticity.