India, early-1900s. The 41st Bengal Lancers are posted to the Northwest Frontier, a key strategic position and a hotbed for rebellion. After his company commander is killed in a skirmish with guerrillas, Lieutenant Alan McGregor assumes command. He soon has to welcome two new officers into his unit, one being the fresh-out-of-training son of the regiment's commanding officer. The Colonel is determined to not give his son any favours, and policy that will tested to an extreme degree.
A good old-fashioned war-adventure film, directed by Henry Hathaway who later gave us True Grit, The Sons of Katie Elder, Kiss of Death and Rawhide (1951), amongst others. Quite the rollicking adventure, full of dash and derring-do.
The fact that it stars Gary Cooper in the lead role gives it away that the film is filled with action and adventure: that's what he does and here he is in his element. Decent supporting cast that includes C. Aubrey Smith.
Not perfect though. The plot drifts occasionally. The parts that are supposed to build our engagement with the three Lieutenants feel a bit cheesy and contrived at times. The fact that they are all played by Americans who maintain their American accents despite playing British officers also doesn't help the realism and credibility.
Overall though it's very entertaining.
A good old-fashioned war-adventure film, directed by Henry Hathaway who later gave us True Grit, The Sons of Katie Elder, Kiss of Death and Rawhide (1951), amongst others. Quite the rollicking adventure, full of dash and derring-do.
The fact that it stars Gary Cooper in the lead role gives it away that the film is filled with action and adventure: that's what he does and here he is in his element. Decent supporting cast that includes C. Aubrey Smith.
Not perfect though. The plot drifts occasionally. The parts that are supposed to build our engagement with the three Lieutenants feel a bit cheesy and contrived at times. The fact that they are all played by Americans who maintain their American accents despite playing British officers also doesn't help the realism and credibility.
Overall though it's very entertaining.