Great movie with authentic action and some at-the-time war film mixed into real action invasion forces. With the cooperation of the USMC, this film won awards in 1950 and was a boost to the good name and appearance of not only John Wayne but also the USMC.
The video was clear, excellent black & white contrast. The special “making of” feature was with Leonard Malton with interviews with John Wayne’s son, John Agar and others.
It was interesting seeing what the think was at the time regarding the Marines and the war effort at Iwo Jima. Forrest Tucker was especially good as Thomas, a foil against Stryker (Wayne), and John Agar’s character, trying to live up to his father’s fame as a Marine but would rather not.
The death scenes were heart-tugging and authentic. The Japanese were portrayed as pretty evil and heartless, which is what I would expect from a film made only a few years after World War II.
The sideways romance with Agar’s character was played up but was not really a vital part of the film. Wayne’s performance was flawless.
Critics on Amazon seem hard on Wayne for not being in the military which is quite unfair and they should really get their facts straight. In the film, Wayne’s son says his father was a great supporter. The USMC actually reviewed the film and made suggestions for its production, and even provided Camp Pendelton for the invasion scenes. Recommended.
PS: If you were ever a fan of F-Troop, it is interesting to note Forrest Tucker later becoming a TV comedian. And if you were a fan of the police show Adam 12, a very young Martin Milner makes an appearance.
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