In Harm’s Way (1965)

VHS CASE/SIDE

Length of film:  165 Minutes

Rated: Approved

Genre: Drama, War

Director: Otto Preminger

Starring: John Wayne, Kirk Douglas, Patricia Neal, Tom Tryon, Paula Prentiss, Burgess Meredith, Dana Andrews, Stanley Holloway, Slim Pickens, Jill Haworth, Henry Fonda

IMDB Rank: 7.3/10

Part 1 Time: 106 Minutes

Part 2 Time:   59 Minutes

Where does the first part end? Clayton Canfil (Stanley Holloway) speaks to Rock Torrey (John Wayne) and Paul Eddington (Kirk Douglas) about the Japanese position on the fictional island of Gavabutu.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “I don’t plan to get lost Mr. Canfil.”- Rock responds to Clayton.

First line of dialogue on the second part: No dialogue, Submarine resurfaces to let off a group of American Marines led by Clayton, they reach Gavabutu.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal, at this point in the film, Rock has taken command of the United States’ Navy Reserve. He is beginning his attack on Gavabutu, in an attempt to gain control of the island for the United States. So far Rock’s plans have been successful, but will the battle continue to in Rock’s favour?

Which part is better? Very tough to determine, the film highlights the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour and the subsequent United States’ Guadalcenal campaign in the South Pacific during World War Two. Although the film is highly fictionalized, the soap opera type story telling works well in films favour. In both parts, we are able to experience many of the personal struggles of both men and women during World War Two. Although watching both parts is highly suggested, a slight edge goes to part one as we are introduced to the protagonists and secondary characters and their interwoven struggles.

Academy Awards: Best Cinematography- Black and White (Nominated)