Sands Of Iwo Jima
Marine Corps Sergeant John M. Stryker is a tough guy with an even tougher job – turn a platoon of raw recruits into a combat-ready fighting machine. He pushes them mentally and physically to their limits – with discipline, hard work and sometimes with his fists – and they hate him for it, especially Pfc. Conway (John Agar), the son of Stryker's former CO.
Soon Stryker's lessons and their courage are put to the test in a costly skirmish, but the worst is yet to come in one of World War II's fiercest battles, the taking of Iwo Jima. Actual combat footage and the famous flag-raising scene on Mt. Suribachi highlight this gripping human drama of heroism and conquest, brought to life by a superb supporting cast and Wayne in one of the finest performances of his career. Nominated for 4 Academy Awards including Best Actor.
Critic Reviews:
- " One of John Wayne's best performances, and an entertainment above average on its own. " – Steve Crum
- " one of the better U.S. propaganda films of the 40s, filled with American ideals and values " – John A. Nesbit
- " In one of his best roles, Wayne's Stryker is a sergeant disliked by his recruits due to his ruthless training and rigid code of ethics. The film established the two-generational plot as a Wayne staple, here contrasted with John Agar's “soft” soldier. " – Emanuel Levy