The Squaw Man

The Squaw Man is a 1914 American silent epic romance film, directed by Cecil B. DeMille and produced by Jesse L. Lasky and Samuel Goldwyn. Based on a play by James Oliver Curwood, the film is a pioneer of the Western genre, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and redemption. The story begins with Captain James Wynnegate (played by Richard Mansfield), a British officer stationed in an unnamed foreign country. Wynnegate is unfairly blamed for the theft of an orphans' fund and, to escape the consequences of a court-martial, he flees to the Canadian West. With no particular destination in mind, Wynnegate sets out on a journey, hoping to start anew and clear his name. As he travels, he comes across the beautiful and kind-hearted Indian woman Nat-U-Rich (played by Doris Kenyon). Nat-U-Rich is a member of the Flathead tribe and lives a tranquil life in the wilderness with her people. The two meet by chance when Wynnegate stumbles upon a Flathead village. Initially, Nat-U-Rich is wary of the stranger, but Wynnegate's charming and chivalrous nature quickly wins her over. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, the two begin a romance, and Wynnegate finds himself falling deeply in love with the Native American woman. As Wynnegate and Nat-U-Rich's relationship blossoms, they face numerous challenges. The village elder, an elderly Flathead chief, disapproves of the union between the British officer and his tribeswoman. The chief fears that Wynnegate's presence will lead to conflict with the outside world, putting his people at risk. Moreover, Wynnegate's past continues to haunt him, as rumors of his alleged crime follow him across the border. Meanwhile, Wynnegate becomes a valuable member of the Flathead tribe, participating in their hunting trips and learning about their customs. He also begins to uncover the truth about the orphan fund's theft, hoping to clear his name and make amends for any wrongs committed in the past. As the mystery unfolds, Wynnegate discovers that the real culprit is none other than his own commanding officer, Captain Winton (played by Francis J. Grandon). The love between Wynnegate and Nat-U-Rich deepens, and they decide to marry in a traditional Flathead ceremony. However, their happiness is short-lived, as the news of Wynnegate's alleged crime reaches the ears of the British authorities. The village elder, still dissatisfied with the relationship, forces Wynnegate to choose between his love for Nat-U-Rich and his loyalty to his country. Torn between his duty and his heart, Wynnegate reluctantly leaves the Flathead village, knowing that he will never be able to return to his new life with Nat-U-Rich. Nat-U-Rich, heartbroken and devoted to her husband, decides to follow him to the city, where Wynnegate has planned to confront his accusers and clear his name. Upon arrival in the city, Nat-U-Rich is shocked by the contrasts between the urban and rural ways of life. She is treated with disdain and disrespect by the people she meets, who judge her solely based on her Native American heritage. Meanwhile, Wynnegate faces his accusers and reveals the truth behind the orphan fund's theft. The truth, finally exposed, sets Wynnegate free from the weight of his past, and he is exonerated. The film concludes with Wynnegate and Nat-U-Rich reunited, with their love now stronger than ever. They return to the Flathead village, where they are welcomed back with open arms. In a poignant scene, Wynnegate and Nat-U-Rich reunite with the village elder, and, through his newfound understanding, the elder comes to accept their love as true and genuine. The Squaw Man is a landmark film in the history of cinema, showcasing DeMille's mastery of the epic romance genre. The film's groundbreaking production, with its elaborate sets and costumes, was a major influence on the development of Westerns. The story, set against the stunning backdrop of the American wilderness, explores themes of identity, community, and the complexities of human relationships. DeMille's The Squaw Man remains a testament to the power of love and redemption, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.