AllMovie

This early epic is set in 16th-century Mexico amidst a carefully researched and painstakingly detailed recreation of an East coast Aztec village. The people there are peaceful and when a Spanish child washes up half-drowned upon the shore, they adopt him. Years pass and as he was raised by the leader, he becomes the new leader. One day a war-like tribe attacks the village and captures the young man. They hold him captive in preparation for sacrifice to the gods. While incarcerated he falls in love with the rival chief's daughter. When she learns that he is to die, she sneaks to the coastal village to warn them. A terrifying battle ensues as they struggle to get their leader back, but in the end they succeed and peace is restored.