The Jayhawkers!

Synopsis

In the film 'The Jayhawkers!', Jeff Chandler portrays a Confederate raider who is captured and sent to a Union prison camp. He seizes an opportunity to escape and finds refuge in the Kansas territory. There, he is drawn into the violent conflict between pro-slavery 'border ruffians' and Jayhawkers who advocate for free soil. Chandler's character grapples with his past while caught between the warring factions and falls for the daughter of a free-soil farmer. As tensions escalate, he must choose between seeking vengeance for his past or embracing a new way of life in a land torn apart by strife and hatred.

Cast

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  Jeff Chandler

  Luke Darcy

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  Fess Parker

  Cam Bleeker

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  Nicole Maurey

  Jeanne Dubois

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  Henry Silva

  Lordan

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  Herbert Rudley

  Gov. William Clayton

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  Frank De Kova

  Evans

Reviews

The Jayhawkers! received mixed reviews from critics upon its release in 1959. While some praised Jeff Chandler's performance and the film's portrayal of the Civil War-era Kansas conflict, others found the plot to be predictable and lacking in depth. Rotten Tomatoes commented, 'Chandler's charismatic presence elevates The Jayhawkers!, but the overall execution is marred by a formulaic script.' IMDb users rated the film 6.3 out of 10, with many appreciating the historical setting and action sequences, but criticizing the film's pacing. Metacritic's review highlighted the cinematography and costume design as standout elements, giving the film a moderate rating of 60 out of 100.