The Last of the Mohicans is a popular story ever since James Fenimore Cooper wrote the novel in the early 1800s. It has been adapted as a movie and revised at least 3 times, along with serials and television series. Since younger crowds don't like the old, boring dramatic scenes of the book, why not turn it into a full blown adventurous romance for the NEW generation. Even though the film seems more action pack it still follows the main plot of the story originally written by Cooper, but with the help Micheal Mann, the story can reach out to younger crowds. Mann's revised version of this epic story has scenery and props that look more realistic than the black and white versions from the 40's. Also the battle that took place in the movie almost looks realistic and more graphical than the earlier versions.
Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Nathaniel "Hawkeye"ÃÂ Bumpo, a frontiers man orphaned and raised by Mohican indians; he finds himself in the middle of the battles between the French and the British and wishes not to fight for either side.
James Fenimore Cooper
James Fenimore Cooper statue in Cooperstown, NY.
Image based on a photograph of James Fenimore Coop...While a band of British soldiers, escorting Cora (Madeleine Stowe) and Alice (Johdi May) Munro their father, is attacked by a war party, Hawkeye and the last of the mohican people, Uncas and Chingachgook, step in to save the day. This initiates an exciting adventure across the forests and through dangerous situations. During this journey, Cora grows a soft spot for her hero, who is a far contrast from British Major Heyward, who is also competing for her affection and will do anything to win that affection even if it means the life of his opponent.
Day-Lewis illuminates his underdeveloped role with his charisma and intensity. Even though the women in the movie don't get much to do besides cower and swoon, Stowe is still always watchable and May also impressive in a small role. Though the most impressive of the supporting players is the villain, Magua. Studi comes very close to stealing the movie through his near perfect personification of evil.
James Fenimore Cooper
sketch of James Fenimore Cooper
Illustration of James Fenimore Cooper