Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher

Movie Trailer

Release Date
November 1, 2021

Genre
Western, Historical Drama

Cast & Crew

• Martin Sensmeier as Montford T. Johnson
• Dermot Mulroney as Boggy Johnson
• Tommy Flanagan as Holden
• James Landry Hébert as Jack Brown
• Mackenzie Astin as Richter
• Tatanka Means as Rising Wolf
• Lily Gladstone as Mary

Director
Nathan Frankowski

Other Movies Director is Known For

• To Write Love on Her Arms (2012)
• The Devil Conspiracy (2023)
• Te Ata (2016)

Producer
Paul Sirmons, Loren Rosson, Jeannie Barbour

Writer
Jeannie Barbour, Paul Sirmons

Budget
$5 million (estimated)

Production Company
Chickasaw Nation Productions

Running Time
96 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
PG-13

Content Advisory

• Violence
• Thematic elements involving racism and frontier life

Movie Story
“Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher” is a historical drama set in the late 19th century, inspired by the true story of Montford T. Johnson, a Chickasaw man who played a significant role in the development of the American West. The film chronicles his life, highlighting his resilience, determination, and the challenges he faced as he built a ranching empire in the heart of Indian Territory.

The story begins with Montford T. Johnson (Martin Sensmeier) as a young man, grappling with the loss of his parents and the burden of carrying on their legacy. Despite the overwhelming odds and the harsh realities of life on the frontier, Montford is determined to carve out a life for himself and his people. He acquires land and begins building a ranch, facing numerous challenges along the way, including hostility from white settlers, cattle rustlers, and the difficulties of managing a large operation in a dangerous and lawless region.

As Montford’s ranching business grows, he becomes a key figure in the Chickasaw community, providing employment and protection for his people. The film also explores his relationships with family, friends, and allies, including his bond with his loyal friend and fellow rancher, Boggy Johnson (Dermot Mulroney), and his mentorship of Rising Wolf (Tatanka Means), a young man with a troubled past who finds redemption through Montford’s guidance.

“Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher” is a tale of perseverance and strength, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America. The film captures the struggle of indigenous people to maintain their culture and identity while adapting to the encroachment of settlers and the pressures of modernity. Montford’s story is one of resilience and leadership, reflecting the broader experience of Native Americans during a tumultuous period in history.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher” are used to enhance the authenticity of the frontier setting. The film employs practical effects to recreate the harshness of ranch life, the violence of the era, and the vast, untamed landscapes of Indian Territory. The cinematography captures the beauty and danger of the American West, with sweeping shots of open plains, rugged mountains, and the stark, unforgiving terrain that Montford must navigate.

Box Office Performance
“Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher” had a limited theatrical release and was primarily distributed through streaming platforms. It performed well within its niche, particularly among audiences interested in historical dramas and stories centered on Native American history. The film received positive attention for its portrayal of a lesser-known but significant figure in American history.

Filming Locations

• Oklahoma, USA
• Arbuckle Mountains, Oklahoma, USA

Notable Quotes

• “A man’s worth isn’t in what he owns, but in what he stands for.” – Montford T. Johnson
• “This land is ours, and it’s up to us to protect it.” – Boggy Johnson

Behind-the-Scenes

• The film was produced by Chickasaw Nation Productions, a company dedicated to telling stories about the Chickasaw people and their contributions to American history.
• Martin Sensmeier, who portrays Montford, is of Alaska Native (Tlingit) descent, adding an authentic representation to the film’s portrayal of Native American characters.

Awards

• None

Final Verdict
“Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher” is a compelling and inspiring historical drama that sheds light on an important yet often overlooked figure in American history. The film’s focus on resilience, leadership, and cultural identity makes it a valuable addition to the Western genre, offering a unique perspective on the American frontier. With strong performances, particularly from Martin Sensmeier, and a well-crafted narrative, this film is a must-watch for those interested in the history of the American West and the experiences of Native Americans during that era.

IMDb Rating
6.7/10