Posted by Rich on October 22, 1998 at 04:21:42:
In Reply to: Studi in Crazyhorse posted by Mouse on October 21, 1998 at 17:06:34:
Three GREAT Indian leaders ... three TRUE heros in their own ways ... BUT, in my humble opinion, the TNT showings simply don't do ANY of the 3 justice. Well worth watching, nonetheless, but remember, these three, particularly, Tecumseh & Crazy Horse, were FAR & AWAY, more vivid, charismatic people than depicted by Turner. Read Mari Sandoz's "Crazy Horse ... Strange Man of the Ogalalas" for a truly heart-rendering account of this man's life (Read her "Cheyenne Autumn" while you're at - AVOID the movie!). There are a number of excellent biographies on Tecumseh ... try "God Gave Us This Country" by Allen Eckert. Though both the films fairly accurately portray the known historical events in these 2 leader's lives, I came away feeling flat after watching. There is SO much more drama in the lives of these 2 men than portrayed. Maybe I'd have felt differently had I not read so much about them beforehand. Both are my "heroes", if I have any!
Geronimo, was the worst of the three, I felt, too mystical for my tastes, and portrayed Geronimo in a very unlikeable, angry manner. It does cover his whole life, as opposed to the Wes Studi version which shows only the reservation years. For an excellent biography of this Apache man, read "Geronimo: The Man, His Time, His Place", by Angie Debo. Personally, I liked the Studi version better.
Still waiting for the DEFINITIVE version of all their lives on film. There are VERY emotionally stirring tales to be told, by a REAL storyteller ... anybody know any?? Amazing men, all, worthy of far better ...
Curious as to your reactions after you see these flicks ...