Age: 72 years
GRS Rating: 5 of 5

Notable Cast:

James Stewart

Duration: 1 hr, 31 min
Infractions: None.

Comments: A reformed lawbreaker is leading a group of settlers from Missouri to the northwest. The hope is that they can settle in a remote area near Portland, Oregon. Along the way, the leader saves a man from hanging. However when he learns the man's identity, he begins to question his choice. Before he can make a decision, they fall prey to a would-be Indian attack and this man saves the leader's life. The two men continue on course to Portland with questions lingering in their minds, while still hoping to deliver the group of settlers to their promised land.

What a great Western! It's short and to-the-point, which is the way Westerns should be. The theme is obvious, and should be clear cut, but there is a bit of hesitation. The characters react as humans. For a '50s film that was encumbered with American cultural standards, this is a film that stands out. It's really a great! "We never should have left the Mississippi."