Stand By for Action

US (1942): Action/Drama/War

This is a gentle comedy, directed by Robert Z. Leonard, wherein a Lieutenant fresh from University (Robert Taylor) sees his first action as second-in-command under gruff but human Lt. Commander (Brian Donleavy) on a recommissioned WW I vessel setting out in convoy against the Japanese following the attack on Pearl Harbor. There is good old Walter Brennan delivering an effective and sentimental supporting performance and a lifeboat full of babies to rescue. The Oscar^®-nominated special effects are good but not outstanding - mainly involving the unlikely old vessel maneuvering to torpedo a Japanese destroyer. What is great fun is watching Charles Laughton steal the film away from everyone else with his crotchety, caring turn as Rear Admiral Thomas. He is a delight to watch, seemingly improving at every moment but we know every twitch, every frown, every hand gesture is calculated to look fresh. An enjoyable, easy-going film that's very easy to watch. Cast includes Marilyn Maxwell, Henry O'Neill, Marta Linden and Chill Wills. (MGM) (Arne Andersen, IMDb)

 Use this link to view the original theatrical trailer for Stand By for Action on TCM.com.

1 nomination