Mister Roberts
Director: John Ford, Mervyn LeRoy, Joshua Logan
Actors: Henry Fonda, James Cagney, William Powell
PlotSet during the final days of World War II, the story revolves around a Navy cargo ship operating in the Pacific. The crew is primarily concerned with mundane and monotonous tasks, which leads to growing frustration among the sailors. Their plight is exacerbated by the tyrannical Captain, whose unsympathetic leadership makes life on board even more unbearable. At the heart of the story is the ship's executive officer, an officer who is deeply empathetic toward the crew and shares their sense of confinement and discontent. He aspires to join the war effort in a more active combat role and frequently requests a transfer, only to be rebuffed by the Captain, who values his competence and leadership too much to let him go.
While continuing to perform his duties, the executive officer engages in a subtle but persistent struggle against the Captain's oppressive regime. This friction gradually deflates the Captain's morale while uplifting the spirits of the crew. Throughout these events, comic and poignant moments reveal the personal struggles, camaraderie, and internal conflicts faced by the crew members. The situation reaches a critical juncture as tensions mount and collective decisions are made that redefine their fate. With time running out and stakes rising, everyone on board must confront their deepest fears and aspirations, setting the stage for a gripping resolution that explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the desire for personal fulfillment.
Writers: Frank S. Nugent, Joshua Logan, Thomas Heggen
Release Date: 30 Jul 1955
Runtime: 123 min
Rating: Approved
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
A superb 4K restoration of John Ford and Mervyn LeRoy’s Mister Roberts, showcasing excellent video and six-channel audio, highly recommended for fans and newcomers alike.
Read our review of Mister Roberts Blu-ray Warner Archive Collection to find out more