Classic Film : Thoughts on Hail The Conquering Hero (1944)

Thoughts on Hail The Conquering Hero (1944)

A witty comedy that satirize many aspects of society and politics but still very patriotic and sentimental.

8/10. I think HTCH is the most enjoyable film of Preston Sturges. There is no dull moment in the film.

Re: Thoughts on Hail The Conquering Hero (1944)

It was OK. Eddie Bracken isn't brilliant though.

You're my wife now.

Re: Thoughts on Hail The Conquering Hero (1944)

Why not?

Re: Thoughts on Hail The Conquering Hero (1944)

Bracken is better in small doses -- I can take just so much of him.

William Demarest, as usual, was top-notch. But it was ex-Middleweight boxing champion turned character actor Freddie Steele as the Marine longing for a home who really stood out. He was also great the following year as the soldier just wanting to hear the recording of his kid's voice in THE STORY OF G.I. JOE.

Take 'em to Missouri

Re: Thoughts on Hail The Conquering Hero (1944)

Bracken's fine enough and Demarest bring s the best out of him but it is the writing and direction of Sturges that makes this film soar. Between 41-44 as fine an auteur filmography in such a short period as you'll find in the 20th century. Sturges was a giant, for a short time, but few filmmakers in their careers can match, The Lady Eve, Sullivan's Travels, Hail the Conquering Hero and The Miracle of Morgan's Creek (not so much The Palm Beach Story) I believe are classics that have stood the test of time and enjoyed today not as time pieces but as genuine sophisticated (with ample amounts of slapstick) comedies that still resonate.
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