A naive sea captain learns a harsh lesson in cowboy lore when he becomes embroiled in a family feud. Tensions are running high between his future father-in-law and a hillbilly clan over the thorny issue of water rights - and neither party is impressed by the newcomer when he refuses to take sides. Western, starring Gregory Peck, Charlton Heston, Jean Simmons, Burl Ives and Carroll Baker.

Retired wealthy sea captain Jim McKay arrives in the Old West, where he becomes embroiled in a feud between his future father-in-law, Major Terrill, and the rough and lawless Hannasseys over a valuable patch of land.