Buffalo Bill and the Indians

Part of the special series MANY VOICES - 100 YEARS OF ROBERT ALTMAN

William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody: Nostalgia ain't what it used to be.

William F. Cody (Paul Newman), known far beyond the country's borders under his stage name Buffalo Bill, can certainly be described as the first American superstar. With his Wild West Show at the end of the 19th century, he continues to create his own myths and re-enacts his experienced yet fictitious adventures daily with his troupe in a circus-like spectacle. Even the president is among the spectators.

When the revue is joined by Sitting Bull (Frank Kaquitts), living indigenous legend and conqueror of General Custer, it is not only the audience's attention that shifts. The new actor dares to question the authenticity of the performance, even to ridicule it. A circumstance that is difficult for the star of the show to accept...