Cast
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Jason Patric
as Lt. Charles Gatewood
Gene Hackman
as Brig. Gen. George Crook
Robert Duvall
as Chief of Scouts Al Sieber
Wes Studi
as Geronimo
Matt Damon
as 2nd Lt. Britton Davis
Rodney A. Grant
as Mangas
Kevin Tighe
as Brig. Gen. Nelson Miles
Steve Reevis
as Chato
Carlos Palomino
as Sgt. Turkey
Victor Aaron
as Ulzana
Stuart Proud Eagle Grant
as Sgt. Dutchy
Stephen McHattie
as Schoonover
John Finn
as Capt. Hentig
Lee de Broux
as City Marshal Joe Hawkins
Rino Thunder
as Old Nana
Crew
Director
- Walter Hill
Producer
- Neil Canton
- Walter Hill
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Wes Studi is really little better than Chuck Connors was in 1962, as the legendary Apache chief Geronimo in this rather slow moving biopic that depicts the frustrations of this otherwise noble man given the consent stream of false promises and betrayal visited on him and his people by an avaricious, expansionist, American government. Jason Patric is really quite good as the liaison officer who is charged with escorting Geronimo to a meeting with the government, epitomised by Gene Hackman as "General Crook" who is a measured, considerate soldier who appreciates, and has some sympathy with, their plight. During this journey, the two men start to form a bond based on their respective senses of honour and fairness; courage and trust. This all becomes sorely tested when "Crook" is succeeded by Kevin Tighe who is not so sympathetic and they now have a revolution to deal with. It has some wonderfully full and grand cinematography, Ry Cooder has created a suitably splendid accompaniment but Matt Damon's rather preppie narration and, indeed, the whole script is way too wordy when we have such characterisations and images to digest.It is far too sanitised to offer a serious critique into the atrocities carried out in the name of progress, so really joust boiled down to an over-long wetter with little eastern promise.
Aug 26, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Geronimo: An American Legend examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Walter Hill 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1993, 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 Geronimo: An American Legend took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $35.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1993, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Geronimo: An American Legend shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Flaming Star, which focuses more on action than character development, Geronimo: An American Legend subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Deadly Companions and Blackwood explore similar territory, Geronimo: An American Legend stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 10, 1993
- Runtime: 1h 55m
- Budget: $35,000,000
- Revenue: $18,635,620
