After a cavalry group is massacred by the Cheyenne, only two survivors remain: Honus, a naive private devoted to his duty, and Cresta, a young woman who had lived with the Cheyenne two years and whose sympathies lie more with them than with the US government. Together, they must try to reach the cavalry’s main base camp. As they travel onward, Honus is torn between his growing affection for Cresta.
Soldier Blue (1970), directed by Ralph Nelson, is a revisionist Western that starkly portrays the brutal realities of the American frontier. The narrative centers on two survivors of a Cheyenne ambush: Honus Gant (Peter Strauss), a naive Union soldier, and Cresta Lee (Candice Bergen), a woman with a complex past. As they journey through the wilderness to reach safety, their evolving relationship unfolds against the backdrop of the violent and unforgiving landscape.
The film is renowned for its unflinching depiction of the Sand Creek Massacre, a historical event where the U. S. Cavalry attacked a peaceful Cheyenne village. This portrayal serves as a critique of the romanticized narratives often associated with Westerns, offering a more nuanced and critical perspective on American history. The juxtaposition of the characters’ personal journey with the larger historical context enhances the film’s depth, making it a significant work in the Western genre.
Themes
- Violence and Brutality: Soldier Blue does not shy away from depicting the extreme violence of the Old West, particularly the massacre of Native Americans. This unvarnished portrayal challenges traditional Western narratives that often glorify frontier life.
- Cultural Clash and Racism: The film delves into the deep-seated racism and cultural misunderstandings between Native Americans and European settlers. Through its characters and plot, it highlights the destructive consequences of these conflicts.
- Humanity and Survival: At its core, the film explores the human condition through the lens of survival. The protagonists’ journey is not only physical but also emotional, as they confront their pasts and the harsh realities of their environment.
- Romanticism vs. Reality: By juxtaposing the idealized notions of the American frontier with its grim realities, Soldier Blue critiques the romanticism often associated with Westerns, offering a more grounded and critical perspective.
- Gender Roles and Empowerment: Cresta’s character challenges traditional gender roles, showcasing strength, resilience, and agency in a male-dominated society. Her journey is one of empowerment and self-discovery.
- Moral Ambiguity: The film presents characters who are neither wholly good nor evil, reflecting the complex moral landscape of the frontier. This ambiguity invites viewers to question preconceived notions and engage in deeper ethical considerations.
- Historical Reflection: By depicting real historical events, the film encourages reflection on the past, prompting discussions about historical injustices and their lasting impacts on contemporary society.
Impact of the Movie
Upon its release, Soldier Blue was met with controversy due to its graphic depiction of violence, particularly the massacre scene. Critics and audiences were shocked by the film’s unfiltered portrayal of the brutality of the Old West, challenging the sanitized versions commonly seen in Westerns. This bold approach sparked discussions about the responsibilities of filmmakers in depicting historical events and the potential of cinema to confront uncomfortable truths.
Over time, Soldier Blue has been recognized as a significant work that pushed the boundaries of the Western genre. Its unflinching realism and critical perspective have influenced subsequent films, encouraging a more nuanced and honest portrayal of history and human nature in cinema.
7 Reasons to Watch Soldier Blue (1970)
- Unflinching Depiction of Historical Events
- Soldier Blue offers a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the Sand Creek Massacre, providing viewers with a stark understanding of this dark chapter in American history.
- This realistic depiction challenges the romanticized narratives often associated with Westerns, offering a more nuanced perspective.
- Complex Character Development
- The film delves deep into the characters of Honus and Cresta, exploring their backgrounds, motivations, and growth throughout their journey.
- Their evolving relationship adds emotional depth to the narrative, making their experiences resonate with viewers.
- Challenging Traditional Western Tropes
- By focusing on the brutal realities of frontier life, Soldier Blue subverts traditional Western tropes, offering a more critical and realistic portrayal of the Old West.
- This approach encourages viewers to question preconceived notions and engage with the genre in a more thoughtful manner.
- Strong Performances
- Candice Bergen delivers a compelling performance as Cresta, portraying strength, resilience, and complexity.
- Peter Strauss’s portrayal of Honus captures the character’s naivety and growth, adding depth to the film’s emotional core.
- Visceral Cinematography
- The film’s cinematography effectively captures the harsh landscapes and intense emotions of the characters, immersing viewers in the setting.
- The use of close-ups and dynamic camera work enhances the visceral impact of the film’s more intense scenes.
- Thought-Provoking Themes
- Soldier Blue tackles complex themes such as violence, racism, and moral ambiguity, prompting viewers to reflect on these issues both historically and in contemporary society.
- The film’s critical perspective encourages deeper engagement with the genre and its portrayal of history.
- Cultural and Historical Significance
- The film serves as a cultural artifact, reflecting the societal attitudes and cinematic trends of the early 1970s.
- Its unflinching portrayal of historical events contributes to a broader understanding of American history and its representation in media.
How Will You Feel After Watching Soldier Blue (1970) ?
Soldier Blue is a film that leaves a lasting impression, evoking a range of emotions:
- Shock and Discomfort: The graphic depiction of violence, particularly the massacre scene, is intense and may leave viewers feeling unsettled.
- Reflection: The film’s unvarnished portrayal of historical events prompts introspection about the past and its ongoing impact on society.
- Empathy and Understanding: As you follow the journey of the characters, especially Cresta and Honus, you’ll likely feel a deep sense of empathy for their struggles and growth. The film humanizes the individuals caught in the turmoil of the Old West, allowing viewers to understand their motivations and the harshness of their circumstances.
- Disillusionment: Soldier Blue challenges the idealized versions of the American frontier often portrayed in traditional Westerns. After watching, you may feel a sense of disillusionment as the film dismantles the myth of the noble West, showing instead the brutal and often immoral actions of settlers and soldiers. This can leave you questioning the romanticized narratives of history.
- Empowerment: Cresta’s character, in particular, offers a sense of empowerment. Her resilience and strength in the face of overwhelming adversity might inspire you, especially considering the limited roles women were often allowed to play in Western films of the time. Watching her take control of her fate may resonate deeply, offering a sense of admiration for her character.
- Sorrow and Reflection on Historical Injustice: The film’s unflinching depiction of the massacre and the broader violence against Native Americans can leave you with a profound sense of sorrow. It forces you to confront the historical injustices that have been committed against indigenous peoples, and this reflection may linger long after the film ends. It may also spark a desire to learn more about the true history of the American frontier and its impact on Native communities.
- Hope for Change: Despite the grim nature of the film, there is an undercurrent of hope that emerges through the characters’ journey and their attempts to survive in a world filled with violence and oppression. This sense of hope comes from their resilience and their quest for a better future, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. After watching, you may feel a renewed appreciation for human strength and perseverance.
In conclusion, Soldier Blue is a film that challenges conventional Western narratives and leaves a powerful impact on its viewers. Its portrayal of violence, moral ambiguity, and historical injustice forces audiences to confront uncomfortable truths, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally charged cinematic experience.