John Beasley

I can only say what I liked about the film. First, it makes me want to watch it again. The voice-over modus operandi was a challenge for me at first, but only because I was looking for an simple escapist moment when I chose this film. As I gave myself to it I realized that it was offering me something far better. There are unforgettable moments. Difficult questions that must be confronted before any of us can understand the true extent of the sacrifices offered by our servicemen and women.

Trying to think why this film is rated 2-1/2 stars. Three, I'd say. Burl Ives stretched a little beyond his comfort zone; a late appearance by the great Mary Astor; a wonderful introduction of a fresh and inspiring European actress and a late appearance, admirably accomplished by heart-throb Robert Taylor. All realistically portrayed in straight, business-forward black and white. Yes, one or two moments of groaning melodrama but not enough to spoil the forward-paciing of the film. Let's be human - we want the threatened couple to live and thrive in a cynical world. It happens.