Cast
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Richard Greene
as Perry Townsend III
Nancy Kelly
as Susan Leeds
Preston Foster
as Lt. (j.g.) John C. Drake
George Bancroft
as Capt. Leeds
Slim Summerville
as Ellsworth 'Spuds' Fickett, cook
J. Farrell MacDonald
as CWO 'Sails' Quincannon
Warren Hymer
as Seaman Rocky Haggerty
Douglas Fowley
as Seaman Pinky Brett
Dick Hogan
as Seaman Johnny Miller
Elisha Cook Jr.
as Seaman Rutherford Davis Pratt, aka 'The Professor'
George E. Stone
as Seaman Irving Goldfarb
John Carradine
as McAllison
Ward Bond
as Seaman Olaf Swanson
Moroni Olsen
as The Fleet Captain
Charles Trowbridge
as RAdm. Joseph Maitland
Crew
Director
- John Ford
Writer
- Darrell Ware
- Rian James
- Jack Yellen
Producer
- Darryl F. Zanuck
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Submarine Patrol examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director John Ford 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1938, 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 Submarine Patrol took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1060 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1938, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Submarine Patrol shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Babylon A.D., which focuses more on action than character development, Submarine Patrol subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Eye of the Needle and Atlantis: The Lost Empire explore similar territory, Submarine Patrol stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 25, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 35m
