During the French and Indian War in 1757, Mohican Chingachgook (Russell Means) with his sons, Uncas (Eric Schweig) and adopted white Nathaniel Hawkeye (Daniel Day-Lewis), visit the Cameron frontier household. They unwittingly become the protectors of the two daughters of a British colonel, a sadistic and vengeful Huron warrior who has dedicated his life to destroying the girls' father for a past injustice.

The film won the Oscar for Best Sound.

This film is eligible for use with the Lucas Theatre Movie Pass.