Brave Warrior

The War of 1812 is the setting for this low-budget but nostalgic western. The reality is that Tecumseh established an Indian confederacy to drive out white settlers but here the chief is portrayed as tolerant and peaceful towards white settlers. The film has the look of a Saturday matinée double bill entry and although there are a few clashes between the Indians and the colonists, the movie offers nothing new. Jon Hall is the star here and goes under cover as a government agent to find out who is stirring up the Indians. Jay Silverheels is the title character and is better than he needs to be as the wise and dignified Shawnee chief. Michael Ansara as the warlike Prophet leads the Indian uprisings and his attacks on the colonists and British spies are major plot angles. The bright, rich technicolor hues enhance the picture and the music accompaniment is also good.