"At War with the Army" is an early teaming of Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. It has some of the slapstick that is always part of Lewis's roles. And it has a dose of singing and dancing – another mark of the duo's films. A couple of funny scenes stand out, but for the most part, the gags and antics aren't overly funny. What is very good about this film is its spoofing of Army life in training centers and posts. The script is superb in this regard. Not much of Army life or procedure escapes the cynic's pen in this movie. So, this is a very good comedy satire of Army life and training at home in peace time.
Some great movies satirize the big picture, military policy and war – as in "Dr. Strangelove." But this film pokes fun at the every day details of Army camp training and society. The portrayal of the wives having knowledge of all plans and operations ahead of the regular brass is a riot. The red-tape, bureaucracy and slow-downs in Army paperwork and procedure get a good raking over. One thing after another is parodied. All of these add up to the funniest segments of the movie.
Other comedy teams and individuals have made funnier movies with lots of slapstick and antics by the stars. And, there have been a number of good comedy-romances over the years. This is not one of the funniest military comedies, and it's not a great work of satire. But it is one of the best spoofs of Army training and life. It will bring a smile and knowing nod to anyone who served in the Army among the grunt ranks.
Some great movies satirize the big picture, military policy and war – as in "Dr. Strangelove." But this film pokes fun at the every day details of Army camp training and society. The portrayal of the wives having knowledge of all plans and operations ahead of the regular brass is a riot. The red-tape, bureaucracy and slow-downs in Army paperwork and procedure get a good raking over. One thing after another is parodied. All of these add up to the funniest segments of the movie.
Other comedy teams and individuals have made funnier movies with lots of slapstick and antics by the stars. And, there have been a number of good comedy-romances over the years. This is not one of the funniest military comedies, and it's not a great work of satire. But it is one of the best spoofs of Army training and life. It will bring a smile and knowing nod to anyone who served in the Army among the grunt ranks.