Fort Apache

Fort Apache is an old John Ford western starring Henry Fonda as a bitter, self-centered martinet of army colonel who brings his daughter (20-year-old Shirley Temple) to a remote outpost. She immediately becomes the love interest of the shy, excessively formal, recent West Point graduate Lieutenant O'Rourke.

The colonel begins his command by requiring strict adherence to the dress code and openly disagreeing with an assessment of the fierceness of the Apache tribe. Then he denies that he's a martinet and says they should get to know each other. He seems to have nothing to do but alienate and antagonize his officers and men. Meanwhile, his daughter has nothing to do but wear pretty clothing and pout.

The picture is saved by John Wayne, an officer with a level head on his shoulders and a profound sense of courtesy, expressed with easy informality.