Mister Roberts
The USS Reluctant carries cargo along World War II's forgotten Pacific seaways. Beyond the horizon, the real war passes its stir-crazy crew by. Mister Roberts, directed by John Ford and Mervyn LeRoy, is the classic story of men fighting to survive not war's dangers but it indignities.
Henry Fonda's reprise of his Tony-winning Broadway role returned him to movies after seven years away. Jack Lemmon won his first Academy Award as hapless, lecherous Ensign Pulver. James Cagney's petty, scrappy Captain makes a fierce adversary. In his final film, William Powell makes world-weary Doc a sage for the ages. Mister Roberts has moments of unforgettable humor. But sadness tempers the comedy. No shot is fired. No blood is spilled. Yet Mister Roberts endures as one of our most truthful war sagas.
Member Reviews
Wonderful classic movie!! - Simmy
This is a wonderful movie which must be seen by anyone who loves old war movies. Mister Roberts will steal your heart away in this movie. It will keep your attention from the start to finish and is a movie you can watch over and over again. I highly recommend this movie.Surprisingly sophisticated dramatic comedy - FJohnCoyote
I loved this movie, and was surprised to read unfavorable reviews online, at least when compared to the Broadway show also starring Henry Fonda. Although it's promoted as a comedy, "Mr. Roberts" is actually a sophisticated blend of comedy and drama, with a poignant conclusion I won't ruin for those who haven't seen it.
The humor is a bit broad, and the drama bordering the maudlin at crucial points, but if you can suspend your 21st century sense of irony you'll find "Mr. Roberts" satisfying entertainment. Henry Fonda is in classic stoic form, and William Powell shines in his final performance. I found Jack Lemmon a little strident, and James Cagney one-dimensional (though his part seems written that way), but even iffy performances by such great actors are a pleasure to behold.
Member Reviews
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Wonderful classic movie!! - Simmy
This is a wonderful movie which must be seen by anyone who loves old war movies. Mister Roberts will steal your heart away in this movie. It will keep your attention from the start to finish and is a movie you can watch over and over again. I highly recommend ...Surprisingly sophisticated dramatic comedy - FJohnCoyote
I loved this movie, and was surprised to read unfavorable reviews online, at least when compared to the Broadway show also starring Henry Fonda. Although it's promoted as a comedy, "Mr. Roberts" is actually a sophisticated blend of comedy and drama, with a ...