Review of Fort Apache (1948) by David S — 17 Sep 2009

Post Civil-War story of a frontier outpost that is assigned a new commander Lieutenant Commander Owen Thursday (Henry Fonda) inexperienced in dealing with the ever present Native American population. The man most think should have the command Captain Kirby York (John Wayne) tries to guide his new commander with little success.

The film has a powerful and effective story that includes elements of romance, camaraderie, bravery and impressive action. This coupled with the impressive cast and the style of John Ford makes this a very memorable western.

In addition to its stars Wayne and Fonda, the picture also has a strong supporting cast. Owen Thursdayâ??s daughter Philadelphia is played by Shirley Temple in one of her rare grown up roles, we also have John Agar (Templeâ??s first husband and Ford regulars Ward Bond and Victor McLaglen.

Visually this is another impressive picture from director John Ford shot in black and white the landscape of Monument Valley, Utah which is a location strongly associated with the director looks great.

This is considered one of the first westerns to portray Native Americans in a sympathetic light, not something the Ford had always endeavored to do, though in his later films he tried to redress some of these failings. The story is loosely based upon the events surrounding Custerâ??s last stand.

The Paul Newman police drama â??Fort Apache the Bronxâ?? was seemingly inspired by its namesake.