The Glory Guys (1965)

I have to read Birney's novel, which is a deeply layered story of the recruits of the 3rd Cavalry facing almost certain death trying to subdue the "renegades" remaining on the high plains. The romantic interests in the story add to the drama and the emotional attachment to each soldier. No doubt, General McCabe (Duggan) became the inspiration of Custer's "Little Big Man". Although filmed in 1966, it captures the elements of the 50s westerns with the political statements of the later 60's westerns, where the authority makes decisions not in the best of interests of their own men. So, it is also a bit of a 'tweener, linking the old westerns to the new. Every actor rode his own horse, there didn't seem to be an overuse of stunt men. You have to wonder in the old westerns whether one of the first question of an actor was "can you ride a horse". Because these were expert horsemen, the entire cast. The acting is more than adequate to pull of the difficult multi-layered story. Slim Pickens, in particular, is up to his par in this film, but more serious than in most. A good tale, well crafted by Peckinpagh, and well filmed on location.

For the time being, this is a hidden gem of a Western.Most of you probably already know that there are some big name actors in this, and some that would be big names later. Also, you probably already know the Custer scenario here.Perhaps the most obvious aspect of this Western is that the lead character is the stoniest of the lot. It's not uncommon for directors and producers to use the most gifted thespians around a stoic "observer" character. Usually, it's a well motivated character who observes and reacts. That's what happens here.The romance story here is very well developed. Personally, I didn't care for the macho bravado Hollywood rivalry of the two men, but the rival's charisma overcomes that, as well as the heroine's beauty.This isn't a puzzler. You'll guess the fates of every character from the onset. If there's one that may be up in the air, it's Slim Pickens, so I'll leave you to question his fate.There's lots to like in this action packed cavalry film, and I won't spoil it any more.

From the original script of director Sam Peckinpah, who first penned this rousing western tale of Calvary vs Indians arises this movie called " The Glory Guys ". Contrary to other films of the genre, this film allows the Native Americas to win an occasional battle. But other credits supplement it as well. The beautiful outdoors, the exciting bar-room brawl and the spacious land conflict called for by a good script. Within the story of myopic Gen. Frederick McCabe (Andrew Duggan) who seeks a glorious victory over the southwestern tribes at any price, is an inner one dealing with two men Capt. Demas Harrod (Tom Tyron) and Chief of Scouts Sol Rogers, (Harve Presnell) who love the same lovely woman named Louisa Woddard (Senta Berger). Although rivals, they bear a mutual respect for each other. Demas is an experienced officer carrying a bitter grudge against General McCabe who sacrifices his men without compunction. His main concern are his raw recruits who he feels deserve better than to be sacrificial fodder for the general. Rogers seeks to settle down, marry and become a farmer. Slim Pickens plays Sgt. James Gregory and rightly garners much praise for his convincing, steadfast role. James Caan and an equally young Wayne Rogers are impressive and complementary characters in the movie. Their fine acting and the film's dramatic action makes for excellent viewing. The musical score is patriotically stirring and further enhances the movie. Recommended for all interested viewers***

I cringed when the opening credits started and some horrible song invaded my ear drums, but then things got better and I was pleasantly surprised while watching this film in its widescreen version. The acting was very good, the Calvary life on a dusty western post was well depicted, and the direction, albeit cheesy in some of chivalry scenes between the two leading men and typical bar fights of the genre, was pretty good considering the simple and predictable plot line.I think James Caan's part of Pvt. Anthony Dugan was well acted and gives us a hint to his impending stardom. Beautiful Senta Berger was just okay in her part of Lou Woddard but there wasn't much for her to do except officiate the battle between Tom Tryon and Harve Presnell for her hand. The other parts weren't that special either but what made the film play out well in my eyes was the appearance of authenticity of a western Calvary company. From the initial gathering of a bunch of green troops through their training and drilling, and complaining, to the final well oiled product that had at least a fighting chance of survival in a big campaign against the Indians.I would recommend this film for those who like westerns and give it 6.5 stars out of 10.