Cast
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Tom Ewell
as Gregory Whitcomb
Sheree North
as Lt. Katy Whitcomb
Rita Moreno
as Sandra Roberts
Rick Jason
as Capt. Barney Sloan
Les Tremayne
as Henry 'Hank' Gaxton
Gregory Walcott
as Lt. Sweeney
Jean Willes
as Joan Sweeney
Edward Platt
as Major Dunning - Psychiatrist
Jacqueline Fontaine
as Buxom Blonde at Party
Helene Marshall
as Mildred Wilkins
Jon Locke
as Roger Wilkins
Sylvia Lewis
as Henrietta Hipslider
Alice Reinheart
as Capt. Grace Briggs
Bette Arlen
as WAAF Officer
Crew
Director
- Frank Tashlin
Writer
- Frank Tashlin
Producer
- Buddy Adler
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Lieutenant Wore Skirts represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Frank Tashlin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1956, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Lieutenant Wore Skirts took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1354 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1956, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Lieutenant Wore Skirts shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Barnyard Flirtations, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Lieutenant Wore Skirts subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Kelly's Heroes and Winged Devils explore similar territory, The Lieutenant Wore Skirts stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 11, 1956
- Runtime: 1h 39m
