The Proud and Profane

Director: George Seaton
Actors: William Holden, Deborah Kerr, Thelma Ritter
PlotDuring World War II, Lee Ashley, a Red Cross nurse, arrives on Guadalcanal seeking closure after the death of her husband, a soldier in the U.S. Marines. Lee's motivations are deeply personal, as she wants to better understand the circumstances that surrounded her husband's death. On the island, she encounters gruff and unapproachable Lieutenant Colonel Colin Black. Initially, Lee is put off by Colin’s abrasive demeanor and his starkly pragmatic approach to warfare. However, Colin is haunted by his own past and struggles with the moral complexities of warfare, which slowly becomes evident through their interactions. As they work alongside each other with shared duties of serving and comforting the soldiers, a complex relationship begins to develop between Lee and Colin, shaped by their conflicting values and personal losses.
Lee also forms a close bond with Kate Connors, a seasoned and worldly-wise fellow nurse, who helps Lee navigate the emotional minefield of life during wartime. Kate provides both humor and wisdom, serving as a pivotal friend and ally amid the chaos surrounding them. As Lee confronts the harsh realities of war while pursuing her personal quest for closure, she is faced with choices about loyalty, duty, and love. Her interactions with Colin challenge her perceptions and drive her to re-evaluate her past and future. Their evolving relationship presents moral dilemmas that test both of their convictions. Amidst the backdrop of war, they must decide if they can overcome their differences and find solace in each other amidst the turbulence of the world around them.
Writers: Lucy Herndon Crockett, George Seaton
Release Date: 25 Sep 1956
Runtime: 111 min
Rating: Approved
Country: United States
Language: English, French
Physical Media Reviews
The Proud and Profane
Blu-ray Review
Score: 83
Kino's Blu-ray delivers a superb 4K scan of 'The Proud and Profane,' with clear visuals and solid audio, despite minor focus inconsistencies.