The Last Command [1955] [DVD]

Remember the Alamo? No, not John Wayne's mammoth epic, but this slightly earlier account, directed by veteran Frank Lloyd on what must have been Republic Studios' highest-ever budget. The tale is well told, with star Sterling Hayden an impressive Jim Bowie and veteran character actor Arthur Hunnicutt portraying a grizzled and probably accurate Davy Crockett.

Richard Carlson as William Barrett Travis actually makes the classic line in the sand with his sword that is curiously missing from Wayne's otherwise definitive version, and there's a healthy air of historical accuracy all round. The end result is enjoyable, even if it's lacking in stature.

Western starring Sterling Hayden. In 1830, Jim Bowie returns to Texas to find the white settlers are planning a rebellion against the increasingly despotic General Santa Anna. When all attempts at reconciliation fail, Bowie joins the Texans and prepares to face the might of the Mexican army.