The heroic but doomed defense of Wake Island against the Japanese in the opening days of WWII provided the basis for this slightly fictionalized, immensely popular flag-waver that garnered several Academy Award nominations. A perfect example of Hollywood's contribution to the war effort,
the film demonstrated that even in defeat there was victory, and provided needed inspiration for a nation reeling from loss after loss at the hands of the Japanese. Hunkered down in foxholes and machine gun nests, the courageous Marine defenders of the island, under the command of the determined
Maj. Caton (Brian Donlevy), refuse to bend to the assault of countless Japanese troops....
Released:
1942
Rated:
NR
Length:
78 mins