CRY BLOOD, APACHE (1970)

Cry Blood, Apache (1970)

"Cry Blood, Apache" is a low-budget Western directed by Jack Starrett and featuring Jody McCrea, Joel McCrea, and Marie Gahua. The film tells the story of five white men who murder an Apache woman and her family in search of gold, only to face retribution from the woman's surviving son.

The film attempts to deliver a gritty and raw depiction of revenge in the Old West, but it often falls short due to its limited budget and uneven production quality. The narrative structure, which includes a framing device of an old man recounting the tale, can be disjointed and detracts from the overall flow of the story.

Jody McCrea's performance as Pitcalin, one of the gold-seekers, is adequate but lacks the depth and intensity needed to elevate the film. Joel McCrea, a veteran actor known for his roles in classic Westerns, appears in a minor role and adds some credibility to the cast. Marie Gahua's portrayal of the Apache woman is sympathetic, but the film's portrayal of Native American characters lacks nuance and sensitivity.

The film's cinematography and direction are unremarkable, with many scenes feeling static and poorly lit. Despite these shortcomings, "Cry Blood, Apache" does manage to convey a sense of bleakness and moral ambiguity, reflecting the harsh realities of frontier life.

Overall, "Cry Blood, Apache" is a flawed but earnest attempt at a Western revenge story. While it may appeal to hardcore fans of the genre or those interested in lesser-known films from the period, it struggles to leave a lasting impression due to its execution and dated sensibilities.