America's Immortal Legend
In 1941 Raoul Walsh directed a movie, arguably his finest, about one of America's most iconic historical figures - George Armstrong Custer. The movie was made before American history had been modified and redefined by the likes of Howard Zinn. In the 1940's Custer was still an American hero. Regardless of the more modern interpretation there are certain things that cannot be denied. He was a man of unusual courage and audacity. A larger than life figure whose name is well known to this very day.
The flamboyant Errol Flynn was chosen to play the flamboyant Custer
This film has survived the test of time and is well written with a fine score by Max Steiner. Flynn was perfect in the starring role. The film follows the career of George Armstrong Custer from his arrival at West Point (where he was remembered for his low grades & high demerits) to his famous demise at the "Little Big Horn". With war imminent Custer is eager to get in on the action, certain that the election of Lincoln means secession & war he is frustrated to learn that he must wait for the more qualified to be assigned. It is at West Point that he meets the pretty Elizabeth Bacon played by Olivia de Havilland.
Eventually, he gets a command and serves with distinction in the Civil War. His disregard of orders and his bluff at Gettysburg are played out, which gives us a sense of this amazing character. We get a glimpse of the historical figures who influenced his career, such as Gen Phil Sheridan and Gen Winfield Scott. This movie checks off so many boxes. It's a historical epic, an adventure film and high drama mixed with subtle humor. I have always liked the dialogue, the sweeping battle scenes and those moments when one was left wondering if this could be kinda what Custer was like?
I loved it as a boy watching on the old Philco TV. I still love it. Many movies on this subject have been made since, but to me there is only one actor who captured the spirit of General Custer - Errol Flynn.
The remainder of the cast included Arthur Kennedy, Charley Grapewin, Gene Lockart, Anthony Quin (as Crazy Horse), Stanley Ridges, Sydney Greenstreet (as Gen Winfield Scott), Regis Toomey, Hattie McDaniel and Walter Hampden.
Since it was the last time Flynn and de Havilland would perform together the farewell scene is both poignant and memorable.
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