This film was released not long after the Korean War. It tells the story of Lt. Harry Brubaker (William Holden), a jet pilot who was drafted and sent to Korea, tearing him away from his family and his law practice.
The film details life on a carrier and the dangers inherent in the onboard jobs. The source novel was written by James Michener, ex-Navy himself, who embedded himself onboard a carrier to gain a close-up look at the men who go to sea and put their lives on the line.
Also starring are Grace Kelly, Fredric March, and Mickey Rooney. Robert Strauss, who played a strong part in "Stalag 17", has a smaller role.
Originally, this film might have been conceived as a tribute to those who sacrificed for the cause, but more than anything, it humanizes the costs of war.
As for Holden, this was his fourth release of 1954, following a strong performance in "Executive Suite" (also with March), and good performances in "Sabrina" and "The Country Girl" (also with Kelly).
The film details life on a carrier and the dangers inherent in the onboard jobs. The source novel was written by James Michener, ex-Navy himself, who embedded himself onboard a carrier to gain a close-up look at the men who go to sea and put their lives on the line.
Also starring are Grace Kelly, Fredric March, and Mickey Rooney. Robert Strauss, who played a strong part in "Stalag 17", has a smaller role.
Originally, this film might have been conceived as a tribute to those who sacrificed for the cause, but more than anything, it humanizes the costs of war.
As for Holden, this was his fourth release of 1954, following a strong performance in "Executive Suite" (also with March), and good performances in "Sabrina" and "The Country Girl" (also with Kelly).