The cinematography was the only thing I liked about this film.

it's all gooey with a nationalistic was message, but the underlying movie here is still a pretty fine war flick.

#505

461

Not bad.

# 362

Fantastic. Easily one of my favorite Ford films. Takes the heroic actions of a small and forgotten group of PT sailors and puts them in the context of the withdrawal of the Philippines. The resulting melancholy throughout the film, combined with Ford's patience and willingness to let the pictures do the talking, makes this a great film.

Not bad but has some significant problems hindering it. The acting is mediocre and the pacing is way too slow. It's fine to have long lulls in the action, but they should be achieved by having scenes that develop characters, not by dragging out every scene. On the brighter side while the film has its share of war movie cliches, Ford keeps them to a minimum and uses them to provide some interesting contrasts. It's also full of splendid shots.

The cinematography is very good, highlighted by some impressive battle scenes. And the story is mildly engaging, although rather fragmented. It's the attitude I can't tolerate. All this gung ho patriotism makes me ill. They're falling all over themselves to serve their country and go kill some "Japs" and "nips". When they get put on "boring" duties, they get very crestfallen and start whining their asses off. And the score is unbearable. Sentimental, heavy-handed pap, and poorly acted as well.

403