Cast
View All
Sal Mineo
as White Bull
Philip Carey
as Captain Myles Keogh
Jerome Courtland
as Lieutenant Henry Nowlan
H.M. Wynant
as Yellow Bull
Joy Page
as Prairie Flower
Britt Lomond
as General George Armstrong Custer
Rafael Campos
as Strong Bear
Herbert Rudley
as Captain Benteen
Sydney Smith
as General Alfred Howe Terry
John War Eagle
as Chief Sitting Bull
Gregg Martell
as Corporal Korn
Slim Pickens
as Ace
Robert "Buzz" Henry
as Lieutenant Crittenden (as Robert Buzz Henry)
Jim Alderman
as Cavalryman (uncredited)
Alma Armstrong
as Minor Role (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Lewis R. Foster
Producer
- James C. Pratt
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Tonka 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 Lewis R. Foster 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 1958, 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 Tonka took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 55 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1958, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- 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 Tonka shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Custer's Last Stand, which focuses more on action than character development, Tonka offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like They Died with Their Boots On and Little Big Man explore similar territory, Tonka 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 25, 1958
- Runtime: 1h 38m
