Review of The Gallant Hours

"The Gallant Hours" despite being a film that takes place in and around the battles of Guadalcanal, is not a "war" movie. You hear the sounds of battle and the effects, but you are never taken into the battle field. The film becomes more of a lesson in leadership, and comradery. And while this is a very moving and thoughtful picture, it is also a film that is, at times, rather dull.

Cagney does a wonderful job as Admiral Halsey. He gives a very measured, thoughtful performance. But being so thoughtful and measured is not always very interesting. Still he does a great job of being the pictures focal point, and holding it together.

While the story is told in a semi-documentary style, I did not like the way that the narrative told you what each person was thinking, especially from the Japanese point of view. I would have found it more enjoyable to have subtitles, and hear the emotion from the Japanese perspective.

"The Gallant Hours" is not a great film, and it will not be for those that revel in the typical "blood and glory", John Ford type of film. And those who prefer to see a more mannered Cagney may have a hard time adjusting to his reserved performance here. Still, it is an interesting film and should be seen.