The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to partner with the Sedona Historical Society to celebrate the National Day of the Cowboy with a special screening of the 1954 Western film “Drum Beat” on Saturday, July 26 at 3:00 p.m. at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre.

“Drum Beat” is loosely based on the real story of conflict between the Modoc tribe and settlers on the California and Oregon border. The hero, Indian fighter Johnny MacKay (played by Alan Ladd), is tasked by President Ulysses S. Grant (Hayden Rorke) to make peace with the Modoc tribe, led by Captain Jack (Charles Bronson).

The film was shot in several locations in and around Sedona. Notably, the historic Schuerman Homestead off Upper Loop Road was one of those locations. The Homestead is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Alan Ladd produced and starred in “Drum Beat.” It was the first film produced by his company Jaguar Productions.

The screening will be preceded by a discussion between film historians Clancy Sage and John Conway. Clancy and John will share anecdotes and stories about the movie and filming it here in Sedona.

Tickets are $20 each. Visit www.SedonaFilmFestival.org to order tickets online or for more information. Call the film festival office at 928-282-1177 to order by phone. The office and theatre are located at 2030 W. SR 89A in West Sedona.