Watch Northwest Frontier

Northwest Frontier is a thrilling adventure film released in 1959, directed by J. Lee Thompson and starring a legendary cast that includes Kenneth More, Lauren Bacall, Herbert Lom, Wilfrid Hyde-White, and I. S. Johar. Set in the early 20th century in colonial India, the movie tells the story of a group of people attempting to transport an Indian prince and his British governess across the treacherous countryside to a safe destination.

The movie opens with a tense scene showing the rebel forces attacking a British fort on the Northwest Frontier. As the rebels close in, the Governor General of India orders the safe evacuation of the prince and his governess, Lady Windham (Lauren Bacall), who are at the fort for personal reasons. Captain Scott (Kenneth More), a seasoned British officer, is entrusted with leading the mission to transport the prince and Lady Windham to safety.

Captain Scott and his team set out on a train with the prince and Lady Windham in tow. However, their journey is far from uneventful. Along the way, they encounter many obstacles, including a bridge that has been blown up, turbulent river rapids, and hostile tribesmen who attack their train at multiple points.

The tension in the movie is ratcheted up with each new challenge faced by the group. Each obstacle is overcome through a combination of bravery, cunning, and a bit of luck. One of the most thrilling sequences involves the team boarding a rickety old train, only to be pursued by a rebel force on horseback. The train speeds along the crooked tracks while the rebel forces do everything they can to catch up. The scene provides a perfect example of the war of attrition between modern technology and the traditional ways of the tribesmen.

The character development in the movie is impressive. Captain Scott, in particular, is painted as a complex and human character. He is conflicted about his role as a military man in India and constantly questions the morality of imperialist aspirations. His dynamic character arc is highlighted in scenes where he and Lady Windham engage in meaningful conversations about their own views of the world order. The dynamic between Lady Windham and the Indian prince is also fascinating, as she works to protect him while navigating the tense political dynamics of the region.

Throughout the movie, the cinematography is stunning, capturing the natural beauty and rugged terrain of colonial India. The movie is a visual treat that showcases the splendor and diversity of the countryside. The score also complements the film's mood and adds to the tension, driving home the perilous nature of the journey.

Overall, Northwest Frontier is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. It's a gripping tale of adventure and suspense that draws on the colonial history of India to spin a thrilling yarn. The performances are superb, with Lauren Bacall and Kenneth More leading a cast that brings the characters to life in a nuanced and compelling manner. If you're a fan of classic adventure movies, this one is not to be missed.