Relations between Native Americans and white settlers in early-19th-century America provide the dramatic focus of this William Wellman Western. The time is 1829, and trapper Flint Mitchell (Clark Gable) heads into the wilderness in search of valuable beaver pelts. In order to get a... [More]

Relations between Native Americans and white settlers in early-19th-century America provide the dramatic focus of this William Wellman Western. The time is 1829, and trapper Flint Mitchell (Clark Gable) heads into the wilderness in search of valuable beaver pelts. In order to get a foothold in the hostile Blackfoot Indian territory, Mitchell marries a Blackfoot woman named Kamiah (played modestly by Mexican film star Maria Elena Marques) whom he slowly begins to truly love. Accompanied by a band of intrepid trappers, the newlyweds press deep into the untamed land despite persistent aggression from its angry native inhabitants. The area in which they trek is beaver country, controlled by Kamiah's grandfather. An unseen man (Howard Keel) effectively narrates the story--he is identified as the Kamiah and Flint's son. Spectacular Rocky Mountain photography makes ACROSS THE WIDE MISSOURI an exceptional visual treat. Veteran action and Western director Wellman is right at home with the thrilling battle and trekking sequences. [Less]