Alvarez Kelly is a 1966 Western directed by Edward Dmytryk. Based loosely on the Beefsteak Raid in September 1864, the film follows Alvarez Kelly (William Holden), a Mexican rancher looking to make some honest money without getting overtly involved in the American Civil War. When he is offered a job driving some Mexican cattle north to Virgina for the Union Army, he decides to place his ideals on hold for a time. But along the way, Kelly is captured by a group of Confederate soldiers led by Colonel Tom Rossiter (Richard Wildmark). Rossiter's army has been long under siege in Richmond, and he wants to steal the cattle to feed his starving men. After some harsh interrogation, Alvarez begrudgingly agrees to help Rossiter out, but must first teach Rossiter's men how to drive the cattle themselves. When the Confederates are finally able to transport the cattle, they come under attack by the Union Army and a bloody battle ensues.moreless