Drum Beat

Alan Ladd gives a powerhouse performance in Drum Beat, an action-packed Western shot in CinemaScope and featuring Charles Bronson in his first major role. Appointed peace commissioner by President Grant, Indian fighter Johnny MacKay (Ladd) is sent to the south Oregon border to deal with the renegade Modoc Indian chief, Captain jack (Bronson). A warrior who honors no treaties, jack is determined to drive out the settlers, a decision that leads to ambushes, massacres and ]ohnny's new orders: Bring in the Captain, dead or alive. Inspired by the Modoc War of 1872-73 and based on historical fact. this two-fisted adventure also stars Audrey Dalton, Marisa Pavan and Robert Keith in "one of [Ladd's] best efforts since Shane" (The Motion Picture Guide)!