Victor Mature is improbably cast here as the great leader of the Sioux nation, but newcomers Ray Danton and Keith Larsen are on hand to add dignity, and veteran John Lund looks good in a cavalry outfit. There's no real thought or style on show, and the target audience seems to have been a very young one. There is, however, poignancy in the fact that Mature's co-star is lovely Suzan Ball (Lucille's cousin), appearing after her leg was amputated in an operation for the cancer that was to take her life soon after this film was completed. She brings a touching credibility to her role, and enhances the whole movie.

When young Crazy Horse, of whom great things were predicted, wins his bride, rival Little Big Man goes to villainous traders with evidence of gold in the sacred Lakota burial ground. Of course, a new gold rush starts despite all treaties, and Crazy Horse becomes military leader of his people. Initial Indian victories lead to the inevitable result. Uniquely, all is told from the Indian perspective.