Hondo

Hondo is a 1953 Warnercolor 3D Western film directed by John Farrow and starring John Wayne and Geraldine Page. The screenplay is based on the 1952 Collier's short story "The Gift of Cochise" by Louis L'Amour. The book Hondo was a novelization of the film also written by L'Amour, and published by Gold Medal Books in 1953. The supporting cast features Ward Bond, James Arness and Leo Gordon. The shoot went over schedule, and Farrow had to leave the production as he was contractually obligated to direct another movie. The final scenes featuring the Apache attack on the circled wagons of the Army and settlers were shot by John Ford, whom Wayne had asked to finish the film; Ford was uncredited for this work. Plot summary Homesteader Angie Lowe (Geraldine Page) and her 8 year-old son Johnny (Lee Aaker) are doing chores when Hondo Lane (John Wayne) arrives, carrying his saddle bags and rifle, accompanied by his dog Sam. He was riding dispatch for the US Army Cavalry, had an encounter with Indians and lost his horse. Hondo offers to work for awhile to earn a horse and Angie agrees. After Angie has said several times that her husband is simply away herding cattle, Hondo confronts her with evidence that he must have been gone a long time, judging by the condition of the ranch and horses. He encourages her to pack up and return with him to the Army fort, since the treaty with the Apache has been broken and they are planning a war; Angie believes her long-standing friendship with the Apache will keep her safe. That night, she notices Hondo's name on his rifle case and remembers hearing he killed three men. She threatens him with an unloaded gun; he loads it for her. As Hondo prepares to leave, he mentions that he once lived among the Apache and had an Apache wife. He tells Angie that she reminds him of his wife and kisses her before he goes. She is confused and upset because she is married, but Hondo insists that people ought to do what they feel is right. He leaves for the fort. Shortly thereafter, the Apaches come to the ranch, led by Chief Vittoro (Michael Pate) and Silva (Rodolfo Acosta). When Vittoro touches Angie, Johnny gets the gun Hondo loaded and shoots at Silva. Though he misses, Vittoro is impressed with his bravery and makes him a blood-brother. Vittoro insists that a brave child should have a father, and leaves.