Flashing back after the alleged death of a war hero, this is formula, by the numbers propaganda with all the ingredients for patriotic stew. Independent filmmaker William Pine released all sorts of similar programmers during World War II, none really good, but not bombs either. Perfect as the bottom of the bill, these came out by the dozens and today are studied more for techniques rather than structure. The Pine-Thomas division at Paramount studios took every branch of the service, practically every important military position, copied recent headlines, and turned them into quick bucks that were very important to the war effort but unremarkable over all.
This entry takes two old rivals, Chester Morris and Richard Arlen, brings them together in battle and ultimately goes out of its way to depict the importance of putting personal animosity behind when faced with a serious mission. Familiar faces pop up throughout. Don't blink or you will miss Robert Mitchum. Typical use of sad moments involving the youngest members of the squadron manipulate the viewer for pathos. Veterans Morris and Arlene take control, and do their best to rise above the predictability.
This entry takes two old rivals, Chester Morris and Richard Arlen, brings them together in battle and ultimately goes out of its way to depict the importance of putting personal animosity behind when faced with a serious mission. Familiar faces pop up throughout. Don't blink or you will miss Robert Mitchum. Typical use of sad moments involving the youngest members of the squadron manipulate the viewer for pathos. Veterans Morris and Arlene take control, and do their best to rise above the predictability.