Ford’s ambitious attempt to craft a Western from the Native American point of view is based on the true story of the Cheyenne’s 1,500 mile march from their barren Oklahoma reservation to their native land in Yellowstone. During their brutal trek, during which they are reluctantly chased by Richard Widmark’s sympathetic Army Captain, Ford depicts the Cheyenne as iconic figures, shot against the stunning beauty of Monument Valley, with a grave majesty and a deep sense of respect. Ford’s last film shot in the location that is now inextricably linked to his films, Cheyenne Autumn’s mournful tone and mature subject matter signal a director nearing the close of a legendary career.