Is The Squaw Man Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Squaw Man is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 107 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Squaw Man Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1931, The Squaw Man enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Jim Wyngate, an English aristocrat, comes to the American West under a cloud of suspicion for embezzlement actually committed by his cousin Lord Henry. Under the direction of Cecil B. DeMille, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Warner Baxter, Lupe Vélez, Eleanor Boardman. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Squaw Man offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Squaw Man resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, The Squaw Man is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Squaw Man centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Jim Wyngate, an English aristocrat, comes to the American West under a cloud of suspicion for embezzlement actually committed by his cousin Lord Henry. In Wyoming, Wyngate runs afoul of cattle rustler Cash Hawkins by rescuing the Indian girl Naturich from Hawkins. Wyngate marries Naturich, but then learns that his cousin Lord Henry has been killed and has cleared his name before dying. As Wyngate has long loved Lady Diana, Lord Henry's wife, he is perplexed at his situation. But fate takes a hand and resolves matters as Wyngate could not have predicted. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1931 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Squaw Man has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Squaw Man sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Squaw Man (1931): with an audience rating of 5/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Western cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Cast of The Squaw Man
- Warner Baxter – Jim Wingate - aka Jim Carston
- Lupe Vélez – Naturich
- Eleanor Boardman – Lady Diana Kerhill
- Charles Bickford – Cash Hawkins
- Roland Young – Sir John Applegate
Top Highlights
Warner BaxterJim Wingate - aka Jim Carston
Lupe VélezNaturich
Eleanor BoardmanLady Diana Kerhill
Charles BickfordCash Hawkins
Roland YoungSir John Applegate
Paul CavanaghHenry - Earl of Kerhill
Raymond HattonShorty
Julia FayeMrs. Chichester Jones
DeWitt JenningsSheriff Bud Hardy
J. Farrell MacDonaldBig Bill
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Squaw Man has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5/10, and global collection metrics, The Squaw Man stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1931 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Squaw Man movie hit or flop?
The Squaw Man has received mixed reviews with a 5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Squaw Man worth watching?
The Squaw Man is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Western movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The Squaw Man?
The Squaw Man is a Drama, Western movie that Jim Wyngate, an English aristocrat, comes to the American West under a cloud of suspicion for embezzlement actually committed by his cousin Lord Henry...
