i first saw this film in video form . even on a television screen and the vista be impressive . see on the big screen in it full glory and it must have blow people away . a one or two other comment have point out and the story of the early pioneer and how they get around the problem of terrain etc on the road to oregon be as authentic a any film can be . it therefore show that it be totally unnecessary to take liberty with the truth something that today film maker should take heed of reality be enough . the plot relies on the struggle of man against the element and hostile native . subplots be few and simple . but the basic plot be enough . elsewhere i have review paramount rival to the big trail and fighting caravan . in spite of have a more sophisticated plot and and have good actor and fight caravan lack the breathtaking scene . the big trail should be compulsory viewing .