Critical reception and artistic elements of The Last of the Mohicans

¶ … Last of the Mohicans

The events in the film, "The Last of the Mohicans" occur during 1757, during the French and Indian War. During these turbulent times, the British and French were battling for the North American colonies, even as the Native Americans and their way of life were being destroyed by the warring parties. Concomitantly, the Indian tribes are also fighting each other, with some more violent than others, and some more friendly towards the Europeans than others. In this context, Daniel Day-Lewis and Madeleine Stowe play the lead roles of Mohican and European General's daughter. Against the violence of burning, fighting and war, the two main characters provide a romantic sub-plot, which is left undecided and uncertain, but hopeful at the end of the film (the Last of the Mohicans).

While some critics did not receive the film well, others, such as John Nesbit, provide positive reviews. Nesbit for example admires most of the cast, and particularly the leading actors, for their acting skills. Madeleine Stowe and Daniel Day-Lewis for example effectively capture the spirit of pioneer America. They are also supported by a cast of effective minor characters, all working together towards the climax and final scenes of the film. Other elements that the reviewer hails as particularly striking in the film include the striking scenery, and the soundtrack (Nesbit).