Glyn McLintock is hired by a corrupt railroad baron to drive a herd of cattle to Oregon. He is accompanied by Emerson Cole, a former outlaw seeking redemption. As they face hardships and betrayal from the baron, McLintock and Cole must confront their pasts and fight for survival and justice in the untamed West.

Bend of the River was a commercial success and is generally well-regarded by critics for its strong performances, particularly from James Stewart, and its gritty, realistic portrayal of the Western genre. It's often cited as a key film in Anthony Mann's directorial career and a significant entry in the revisionist Western movement.

• Praised for James Stewart's compelling performance and his ability to convey moral complexity.
• Applauded for Anthony Mann's assured direction and the film's visually striking cinematography.
• Recognized for its mature themes and subversion of traditional Western tropes.

Google audience: Audiences often highlight the film's engaging storyline and the strong chemistry between James Stewart and Arthur Kennedy. Many appreciate its realistic depiction of the challenges faced by pioneers and the moral ambiguities presented.

The film was originally titled 'The Far Country' but was renamed 'Bend of the River' to capitalize on the success of another James Stewart-Anthony Mann collaboration, 'Winchester '73'.