Walter Hill's biopic of the Apache hero brings to life the political struggle between Native Americans and the US army in the 19th century. It's a fast paced, well made movie that's more educational than everything else; as a viewer to whom the story was completely new, I enjoyed learning about the tensions and situations along with the historical backdrop.
However, I can't help but feel the film is lacking something: it has a made for TV feel and never has the 'bite' or heart that make other biopics so affecting. This one goes through the motions and utilises a powerful cast to bring the characters to life, but you watch it in the same way you watch a history documentary: to learn rather than feel. The blame has to go to John Milius's script, I think.
Still, both Hackman and Duvall contribute seasoned turns as grizzled old war veterans, and it's great to see a fresh-faced Matt Damon taking on a leading role and handling it comfortably so early on in his career. What a surprise, too, to discover that Jason Patric (THE LOST BOYS) could actually act back in the day. The best cast member is Wes Studi as Geronimo himself: playing his character stony-faced most of the time, he gets the man's humility, strength and sense of quiet honour just right.
However, I can't help but feel the film is lacking something: it has a made for TV feel and never has the 'bite' or heart that make other biopics so affecting. This one goes through the motions and utilises a powerful cast to bring the characters to life, but you watch it in the same way you watch a history documentary: to learn rather than feel. The blame has to go to John Milius's script, I think.
Still, both Hackman and Duvall contribute seasoned turns as grizzled old war veterans, and it's great to see a fresh-faced Matt Damon taking on a leading role and handling it comfortably so early on in his career. What a surprise, too, to discover that Jason Patric (THE LOST BOYS) could actually act back in the day. The best cast member is Wes Studi as Geronimo himself: playing his character stony-faced most of the time, he gets the man's humility, strength and sense of quiet honour just right.