Bend of the River

Starring: James Stewart, Arthur Kennedy, Rock Hudson, Julie Adams
Directed by: Anthony Mann
Rating: Not rated
Genre: Western
1952

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A man (James Stewart) leads a group of homesteaders to their land in Oregon. During the winter, he must battle officials not wanting to deliver the food that will keep the homesteaders alive, as well a mutiny of his own men.

Review:

Tim: James Stewart has made so many Westerns, and all of them are solid films (most all of them). This is another fine entry in his collection. Here, Stewart plays a darker character (well, to be honest, he plays his typical role, but he has a darker past). The movie also has a very interesting theme of whether or not a man can change his life. Pay attention to this, because it repeatedly comes up in the film. This plays an integral role in the movie.

The movie has a large but really good cast. Every actor plays their role extremely well, and Stewart is in the middle, doing what he does best. Arthur Kennedy is just excellent in his role. Three years after this movie, Kennedy will be in The Man from Laramie, another Stewart-Mann film. He is not has as enjoyable there as he is here. Rock Hudson is good as well, and he is also no stranger to Stewart-Mann Westerns.

It is important to look at this film in relation to all the other Stewart-Mann collaborations. All of them are quite good. While this movie isn't the best to come out of that partnership, it is still deserving of your time.

The story is very interesting, of a man trying to get supplies to a homestead before winter comes. Along the way, those working with him turn against him. This is all great, but when you add in Stewart's complex character, you have something special.

Any fan of Westerns simply must see of the films to come out of the Director Anthony Mann - Star James Stewart team. I'm not sure how many of today's movie viewers have seen these great Westerns from the '50s, but I'd imagine not enough. I hope people will seek these films out and I'll continue to do my part to highlight the importance of the movies. See this movie!

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Man From Laramie, Red River