The Mountain Men, released in 1980, starred Charlton Heston as Bill Tyler and Brian Keith as Henry Frapp. Running Moon was played by Victoria Racimo, while Heavy Eagle was portrayed by Stephen Macht.
The film is set in the 1850s, a time when the fur trade was dwindling, and the days of the mountain men were numbered. Bill Tyler and Henry Frapp are two such men, who have been living off the land for decades, trapping furs and bartering with the Indians.
Running Moon is a beautiful young woman who belongs to a nearby tribe. One day, she comes across Bill and Henry's cabin and seeks refuge with them. She has run away from Heavy Eagle, her abusive husband, and is desperate for help.
Bill and Henry take Running Moon in, and soon they develop a deep affection for her. However, they are unaware that Heavy Eagle has sent an army of Indian braves to reclaim his wife. When the warriors arrive at the cabin, a battle ensues, with Bill and Henry fighting to defend their newfound friend.
As the story unfolds, we see that Running Moon is not just a victim of her circumstances. She is a strong, independent woman who is determined to take control of her own life. Meanwhile, Bill and Henry are forced to confront their own mortality, as they realize that the world around them is changing, and their way of life is coming to an end.
The film features stunning scenery, as it was shot on location in the Rocky Mountains. It also has a memorable score by Michel Legrand, which perfectly captures the melancholic mood of the story.
Overall, The Mountain Men is a poignant tale of friendship, adventure, and the passing of an era. It is a must-see for fans of westerns and anyone who appreciates a good story about the human condition.
