Is 7th Cavalry Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, 7th Cavalry is likely a skip if you enjoy Western movies.
It features a runtime of 75 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
7th Cavalry Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1956, 7th Cavalry emerges as a significant entry in the Western domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of An officer accused of cowardice volunteers to bring back General Custers's body after Little Big Horn. Unlike standard genre fare, 7th Cavalry attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Western is often anchored by its ensemble, and 7th Cavalry features a noteworthy lineup led by Randolph Scott . Supported by the likes of Barbara Hale and Jay C. Flippen , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of 7th Cavalry (1956) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
7th Cavalry Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: 7th Cavalry is a Western film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
7th Cavalry Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: 7th Cavalry attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to western resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the western themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of 7th Cavalry reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch 7th Cavalry?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Western films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of 7th Cavalry
- Randolph Scott – Capt. Tom Benson
- Barbara Hale – Martha Kellogg
- Jay C. Flippen – Sgt. Bates
- Frank Faylen – Sgt. Kruger
- Jeanette Nolan – Charlotte Reynolds
Top Highlights
Randolph ScottCapt. Tom Benson
Barbara HaleMartha Kellogg
Jay C. FlippenSgt. Bates
Frank FaylenSgt. Kruger
Jeanette NolanCharlotte Reynolds
Leo GordonVogel
Denver PyleDixon
Harry Carey, Jr.Cpl. Morrison
Michael PateCapt. Benteen
Donald CurtisLt. Bob Fitch
Where to Watch 7th Cavalry Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
7th Cavalry is rated NR.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.9/10, and global collection metrics, 7th Cavalry stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1956 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7th Cavalry movie hit or flop?
7th Cavalry has received mixed reviews with a 5.9/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is 7th Cavalry worth watching?
7th Cavalry is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Western movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch 7th Cavalry online?
7th Cavalry may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How 7th Cavalry Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for 7th Cavalry
Yellow Hair and the real meaning of Horsepower. Set after the Battle Of Little Big Horn, 7th Cavalry sees Randolph Scott playing Captain Benson, who returns with his future bride to his post commanded by Indian fighter, Colonel Custer. Custer however was gone, he had taken the famous 7th Cavalry to war with the Sioux at Big Horn and lost badly. Guilt ridden and tarnished by whispers of cowardice, Benson volunteers to lead a dangerous mission back to Big Horn to reclaim the bodies of the fallen soldiers. There doesn't appear to be much much love for this 1956 Columbia Pictures Oater. Seems it's either damned for being too talky, or on the flip side, it's too hokey within its plotting to actually merit worth. Well that's a shame for this has something of a vintage feel to it, the themes of guilt and redemption are Western standards, whilst the story also takes in interesting arcs such as religious beliefs and spiritual meanings. Yes this is definitely a "talky" picture - aside from some mano mano action and single horse pursuits that is - but it's a well thought out screenplay by Peter Packer (adapting from Glendon Swarthout's story). Instances such as a military enquiry and an exchange between Benson and a young Indian warrior are intelligent passages in the story (with Scott doing fine work in the process). What it lacks in gusto action it more than makes up for with the characterisations. Other plus points are that it's also nicely shot in Mexico, the Technicolor doing justice to the splendid costumes on show. Backing Scott up in support are admirable performers such as Jay C. Flippen, Frank Faylen, Leo Gordon, Michael Pate and Harry Carey Junior. Although the ladies (Jeanette Nolan & Barbara Hale) aren't given too much to do and the score conducted by Mischa Bakaleinikoff is at odds with the tempo of the film, 7th Cavalry still deserves a better reputation than it currently has. If you prepare for a work of fiction that is most assuredly dialogue driven, then hopefully your expectations will at the least be met. 7/10
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
