Cry Havoc (1943), They Were Expendable (1945), and From Here to Eternity (1953)

Each of these three war stories are compelling although different in significant ways. For example, they all take place either just before or during some of the earliest parts of America's involvement in the war, while Cry Havoc features an almost all-female cast. Each cast's range and ability is on full and delightful display. All three films boast robust, talented, and dynamic ensembles.

- Olivia

Cry Havoc (1943)- 1 hr 37 mins

Lt. Smith, "Smitty" (Margaret Sullavan) is one of two army nurses at one of the short-staffed field hospitals in Bataan. She is in charge of 11 civilians who have volunteered to help, but as basic provisions dwindle and the enemy attacks increase, the colorful group of women finds it increasingly difficult to withstand the pressure.

Cry Havoc features a superb group of strong and remarkable actresses that shine under the grueling demands and dire circumstances with which the film deals. Each actress has her "moment," but Margaret Sullavan, Ann Sothern, and Joan Blondell's performances are what make the film an absorbing and realistic dramedy.

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They Were Expendable (1945)- 2 hrs 15 mins

Much to their dismay, Lt. Brickley and Lt. Ryan's vision for the use of PT boats continues to be dismissed by their superiors. That is, at least, until the attack on Pearl Harbor. With every man and able-bodied ship needed, the two men lead their PT-boat crews into some of the early and hopeless parts of the war in the Pacific.

Montgomery- a real-life PT Commander- and Wayne star as Lt. Brickley and Lt. Ryan under director John Ford's expert direction in this realistic war drama. It has all of the characteristics of a great Ford film, among them, the perfect close-ups and sympathetic touches.

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From Here to Eternity (1953) - 1 hr 58 mins

Robert E. Lee Prewitt (Montgomery Clift), a former army boxing champion, has been re-stationed at a base in Hawaii. His transition, though, is far from smooth. He faces continuous pressure and abuse from his superior, Captain Holmes (Philip Ober), and his peers for his decision to no longer participate in the sport. His friend, the lovable Angelo Maggio (Frank Sinatra), tries to help him out, but his intense loyalty puts him at risk as well. At the same time, the bases' second-in-command (Burt Lancaster) has begun an affair with Captain Holmes' wife (Deborah Kerr). Will the tragic attack on Pearl Harbor be able to resolve these tensions?

From Here to Eternity features some interesting casting choices, which end up working in the film's favor. Among them is Sinatra. In a role that would revive his career, he "proves he is an actor by playing the luckless Maggio with a kind of doomed gaiety that is both real and immensely touching." Clift only adds to his résumé of sensitive portrayals. Lancaster is perfect as the tough Sergeant Warden, who is torn between his rigid convictions and his feelings. Donna Reed, although less believable, and Deborah Kerr are wonderful as two "life-weary" women who are ready to break out. This film is not a typical war film. Ultimately, it is an unconventional underdog story, even as it doesn't sacrifice any of the genre's noteworthy trademarks!

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