Cast
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Bud Abbott
as Slicker Smith
Lou Costello
as Herbie Brown
Tom Brown
as Bill Gregory
Joan Shawlee
as Sylvia Hunter
Nat Pendleton
as Sgt. Michael Collins
Beverly Simmons
as Yvonne 'Evie' LeBrec
Don Porter
as Capt. Christie
Donald MacBride
as Police captain
Don Beddoe
as Mr. Roberts (State Department)
Charles Trowbridge
as Mr. Quince
Russell Hicks
as Mr. Appleby
Joe Kirk
as Real Estate Salesman
Knox Manning
as Commentator
Milburn Stone
as Announcer
Eddie Acuff
as Soldier (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Charles Barton
Producer
- Robert Arthur
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Comedy/Romance/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Buck Privates Come Home distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Charles Barton 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 1947, 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 Buck Privates Come Home took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.2 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 77 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 35 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1947, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- 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 Buck Privates Come Home shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Porch Pirates, which focuses more on action than character development, Buck Privates Come Home subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The King of Comedy and The Apartment explore similar territory, Buck Privates Come Home stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: April 4, 1947
- Runtime: 1h 17m
- Budget: $1,167,500
- Revenue: $2,365,000
