Cast
View All
Janet Blair
as Christine Bradley
Alfred Drake
as Howard Young
Jeff Donnell
as Peggy McDougal
Marc Platt
as Junior Casady
Sid Caesar
as Chuck Enders
Hugh Beaumont
as Captain
Joseph Crehan
as Admiral
James Flavin
as Chief Bosun Mate Gurney
Ray Walker
as Lt. Scully
Robin Raymond
as Recording Studio Pitch Woman
Anita Alvarez
as Featured Dancer (uncredited)
Chet Brandenburg
as Midget Circus Spectator (uncredited)
William Forrest
as Commander (uncredited)
Charles Owens
as Dancer (uncredited)
Alex Romero
as Dancer (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Alfred E. Green
Writer
- Decla Dunning
- Hans Jacoby
- Sarett Tobias
Producer
- Milton H. Bren
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Tars and Spars represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Music/Romance 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 Alfred E. Green 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 1946, 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 Tars and Spars took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 86 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2041 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1946, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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 Tars and Spars shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Yanks, which focuses more on action than character development, Tars and Spars offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Toth Family and Mrs. Henderson Presents explore similar territory, Tars and Spars 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: January 10, 1946
- Runtime: 1h 26m
