'Red Skies of Montana' based on Mann Gulch Fire

The local Historic Film Club will show the fire-fighting drama “Red Skies of Montana” at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 27, at the Museum at Central School in Kalispell.

Cliff Mason (Richard Widmark) is a veteran foreman for the National Forest Service’s smokejumper unit and one of the most respected firefighters in Montana, until one fateful day, when Cliff parachutes into the heart of a huge blaze and is cut off from the men who he is supposed to be relieving. The next day, only Cliff is found alive, and with no memory of the night before. And as other firefighters begin to doubt Cliff’s abilities and courage, something even worse happens — Cliff begins to doubt himself.

The 1952 drama is based on the firefighting efforts during the Mann Gulch Fire of 1949. On Aug. 5 of that year, a team of 15 smokejumpers parachuted into the area attempting to contain the blaze. Sudden high winds, however, caused the fire to suddenly expand and cutting off the men’s route. In just 10 minutes, the fire grew 3,000 acres and claimed the lives of 12 of the newly arrived smokejumpers.

There is no charge for the film, and donations will be accepted to help defray the cost of acquiring and showing the films. The movie and popcorn are free; wine, beer, pop and water will be for sale. Seating is provided, but film fans can bring their own floor pillows, portable chairs, or whatever is comfortable for viewing the film.

The Museum at Central School is located at 124 Second Ave. E., Kalispell. Call 406- 756-8381 for more information.