The Scalphunters is a 1968 Western film directed by Sydney Pollack and stars Burt Lancaster as Trapper Joe and Ossie Davis as Joseph. Throughout the film, Joe is portrayed as a selfish and greedy man who only cares about his hides, while Joseph, a former slave, is depicted as a wise and resourceful character who helps Joe when he is in trouble.
After the Indians capture Joe's hides, they leave him with Joseph as a replacement. Despite Joseph's attempts to escape, Joe insists on taking him along as he believes he can use him as leverage to get his hides back. However, things take a turn for the worse when the group is attacked by Howie and his scalphunters. Howie, a ruthless and cunning man, not only steals the hides but also takes Joseph as his captive.
Joe, being too selfish to leave his hides behind, decides to follow Howie and his men in hopes of retrieving his property. Along the way, he tricks the scalphunters into believing that Joseph is a valuable slave, but eventually, the truth is revealed, and a violent confrontation ensues. In the end, Joe learns a valuable lesson about the importance of friendship and loyalty, while Joseph gains his freedom.
The Scalphunters is a unique Western film that addresses themes of racism, greed, and morality through its well-written script and strong performances. It features some thrilling action sequences and a memorable score by Elmer Bernstein. The film was a commercial success upon its release and continues to be a favorite among Western fans today.