Smoke Signal (film)  Smoke Signal is a 1955 American Western film directed by Jerry Hopper and starring Dana Andrews and Piper Laurie. Cavalry officer Brett Halliday is facing a court-martial for treason over his defection to a Ute tribe that has been making raids on soldiers. After a bloody attack at the fort, survivors forge the Colorado River in boats, fleeing for their lives. They include the captain now in charge, plus Laura Evans, daughter of the dead commanding officer, and Lt. Ford, who is in love with Laura. Harper is intent on bringing Halliday to justice. Ford falls to his death from a cliff while fighting with Halliday, who helps the others fend off another attack. A grateful Capt. Harper can't bring himself to set Halliday free, but hints that he will not interfere if Halliday should escape. Laura hopes to see him again as Halliday gets away.