The Caine Mutiny

by LJ95482 Saw this when it was first released and knew it would become a classic role for Bogie and the other actors. Several years later I found myself aboard a new guided missile ship experiencing what it's like to be serving as an enlisted man. Fortunately our captain had all his marbles in the right place. If you like seafaring dramas, you will enjoy this one.

If you're looking for a WWII war movie, this is not it! However if you are looking for a mature, very insightful film about military bonding, loyalty and betrayal- this is the movie to see! Being a ex-military man, I can greatly appreciate the depiction of the dynamics depicted a leader and his subordinate officers. Bogart, Fred McMurray and every other cast member does an outstanding acting job. Every service member, especially the officers, should be required to view this film.

OK, the score was stolen from "Treasure of the Sierra Madre." But… Jose Ferrer delivers his standard consummate performance; Fred MacMurray shines out of character as a despicable coward; Bogie displays his quintessential disappearance into his role, more human than human. A real classic, worth watching again and again.

An all star cast highlights this work of fiction based on the novel of the same name by Herman Wouk (the Winds of War). Humphrey Bogart is outstanding as an oppressive Commanding Officer of a Minesweeper (the USS Caine) during WWII. Fred McMurray shines in one of his finest and most realistic roles as the instigator of a mutiny on board the Caine. Funny, eloquent, and very convincing, McMurray convinces the ships Executive Officer (Van Johnson) that the new Skipper is unbalanced, forcing him to take drastic action in the heat of the moment. Superbly acted, and well directed this movie is much closer to home that many Naval Officers would like to admit. This film explores the toll and strain that combat has on the men trusted with making decisions in the heat of battle. Much more realistic than some of it's counterparts from the same period, The Caine Mutiny has got to be one of the finest movies about naval warfare and command at sea ever made. In addition to the three headliners (Bogart , Johnson , and McMurray) you will recognize some other stars in the cast as well including; Claude Akins, Lee Marvin, Jose Ferrer, and James Best in supporting roles. The only negative is the soundtrack. There is way too much "Big Band" influence here (relective of the times). However, this can be easily overlooked. And a surprise ending will keep you in suspence until the very end. If you have any interest naval affairs you must see this movie. Two thumbs up!!!