Based on the novel APACHE RISING by Marvin Albert, this bold and inspired western meets every expectation of its genre. Director Ralph Nelson keeps the pace lively in this Calvary verses the Indians narrative and puts both James Garner and Sidney Poitier to great use. Garner plays Jess Remsberg, a rugged handsome scout, and Poitier plays Toller, a former trooper, who now makes a living breaking in horses. Bill Travers is their formidable leader, Lt. Scotty McAllister. When the vigorous McAllister leads his group of recruits to a far away fort they are unexpectedly attacked by Apaches. The group is saved by Remsberg's knowledge of the Indians and Toller also helps out in unexpected ways. Poitier stretches here, and the result is a surprising and delightful characterization. The well staged, action packed, battle sequences are also a credit to Nelson's direction. Look for Richard Farnsworth, who turns in a memorable cameo as the wagon driver.