Cast
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Robert Stack
as Lt. Billings
Joan Taylor
as Wanima
Charles McGraw
as Sgt. Clarke
Keith Larsen
as Taslik
Peter Graves
as Trooper Tolson
Robert J. Wilke
as Trooper Grady
John Doucette
as Trooper Charnofsky
Walter Reed
as Trooper Allison
Douglas Kennedy
as Trooper Clancy
Charles Nolte
as Cpl. Hamilton
James Parnell
as Trooper Martin
William Pullen
as Jeb
Richard H. Cutting
as Commissioner Kirby (as Richard Cutting)
Anthony Jochim
as Trading Post Proprietor (uncredited)
Paul Richards
as Trooper Perkins
Crew
Director
- Lesley Selander
Reviews
John Chard
Stop bleeding all over me and get going.
War Paint is directed by Lesley Selander and adapted to screenplay by Richard Alan Simmons and Martin Berkeley. It stars Robert Stack, Charles McGraw, Joan Taylor, Peter Graves, Keith Larsen, Robert Wilke and Walter Reed. Music is by Arthur Lange and Emil Newman, and cinematography by Gordon Avil.
A cavalry patrol trying to deliver a peace treaty to Gray Cloud are being destroyed from within by an Indian brother and sister.
Paper of lies!
Filmed out of the superb presence of Death Valley, War Paint is as solid as one of that location's rocks. The title hints at some cheapo "B" Oater, the kind that is all hooray and jingoistic as the cavalry mow down the Indians, but that is not the case. Though an air of familiarity exists, with the core of the story about an army unit literally dying out in the desert, with saboteurs operating within, there's a two sides of the coin pinch in the narrative, with dialogue nicely written with thought and sincerity. Opening with a scalping, drama and suspense is never far away, so as the group implode, with suspicions, thirst and gold fever taking a hold, the viewer is always intrigued as to who will survive and will the treaty ever reach its destination? Plus you may find yourself feeling very thirsty during the viewing...
Very nicely performed and handled with underrated tidy hands by Selander, this is well worth a look by Western fans. 7/10
Sep 28, 2017
CinemaSerf
The claim to fame of this otherwise completely unremarkable western is that is was the first feature actually filmed in Death Valley. That provides us with some pretty magnificent location photography as "Billings" (Robert Stack) is despatched to deliver a peace treaty to the ominously monikered Chief "Gray Cloud". Luckily, his son "Taslik" (Keith Larsen) is on hand to guide them on their perilous journey through this tough terrain - but is he quite what he seems? It's all pretty standard fayre, this - a few familiar faces add a tiny bit of richness to an otherwise forgettable outing for Stack and a curiously cast Joan Taylor ("Wanima") who really struggles to make much impression with her pretty unimaginative dialogue. Standard drive-in fodder with some decent enough action scenes now and again. Not terrible, but you won't recall it half an hour after you watch it.
Jul 31, 2022
Thematic Analysis
War Paint represents a fascinating example of Western/Adventure/War cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Lesley Selander brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1953, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of War Paint took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1953, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While War Paint shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Carry On Cowboy, which focuses more on action than character development, War Paint subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Hidalgo and Stagecoach explore similar territory, War Paint stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 28, 1953
- Runtime: 1h 29m
Where to Watch
