The Savage Innocents
The Savage Innocents

Movie spotlight

The Savage Innocents

1960
Movie
110 min
English

An Eskimo who has had little contact with white men goes to a trading post where he accidentally kills a missionary and finds himself being pursued by the police.

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Director: Nicholas RayGenres: Adventure, Drama, Western

Plot Summary

In the desolate Arctic, a nomadic Inuit hunter, the Eskimo, lives a simple life with his wife and children, adhering to ancient traditions. His peaceful existence is disrupted when he encounters a trio of stranded European traders. The hunter's kindness and hospitality are met with betrayal and violence, forcing him to confront the encroaching modern world and its destructive influence.

Critical Reception

Nicholas Ray's "The Savage Innocents" is a visually stunning but dramatically uneven film that attempts to portray the clash between traditional Inuit culture and Western civilization. While lauded for its authentic depiction of Arctic life and Anthony Quinn's powerful performance, it has been criticized for a somewhat simplistic narrative and occasional melodramatic turns. The film remains a notable entry for its ambitious scope and Ray's distinctive directorial vision.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its authentic and often beautiful cinematography of the Arctic landscape.

  • Anthony Quinn's performance as the Inuit hunter is frequently highlighted as a strong, compelling element.

  • Criticized by some for its narrative simplicity and a somewhat romanticized portrayal of native life.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but the film is generally appreciated for its visual splendor and Quinn's performance, though some find the story to be a bit dated or overly simplistic.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 1960 Cannes Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in the Canadian Arctic, with a largely Inuit cast and crew, aiming for authenticity in its portrayal of indigenous life.

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