Sergeant Rutledge is a 1960 Western film directed by John Ford and starring Jeffrey Hunter, Constance Towers, and Woody Strode. The film follows the story of Sergeant Brax Rutledge, a black cavalry trooper who is accused of raping and murdering a white woman and killing her father, his commanding officer.
The story is told through a series of flashbacks as Rutledge stands trial for his alleged crimes. As the trial unfolds, it becomes clear that Rutledge, who is highly skilled and respected among his fellow soldiers, is being railroaded by a racist system that automatically assumes his guilt because of his skin color.
Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, Rutledge maintains his innocence and refuses to give in to the pressure to admit to the crimes. With the help of his defense attorney, Lt. Cantrell, and the testimony of witnesses who speak up in his defense, Rutledge is able to prove his innocence and clear his name.
Sergeant Rutledge is a powerful film that explores issues of race, justice, and the struggle for equality in a time when such concepts were not widely accepted. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of John Ford's work as a master filmmaker and storyteller.