Heartland is a 1979 film, directed by Richard Pearce, starring Rip Torn and Conchata Ferrell. The movie is a stark depiction of early homestead life in the American West, and is based on a 1914 published reminiscence by Elinore Pruitt Stewart, titled Letters of a Woman Homesteader.
Though the story is set in southwestern Wyoming, where Stewart homesteaded, the movie was actually filmed in central Montana.
The relationship between a young man (Daniel) and his sister (Ally). Their mother dies and Daniel comes to live with Ally. Not understanding all the responsibilities which comes along with Daniel, Ally takes on the role as his protector from not just harm but from life. See Daniel has Downs Syndrome, Daniel lives a regular life like you and I.Ally doesn't see this until one day she realizes the only life she needs to protect is her own. Written by Anonymous
Letters written by Elinore Pruitt Stewart provided the basis for the film. These letters dated from April 1909 to November 1913 and were first printed in "The Atlantic Monthly."
