Cry of Battle

Cry of Battle, released in 1963, is an engaging war drama directed by Irving Lerner and featuring accomplished actors such as Van Heflin, Rita Moreno, and James MacArthur. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the movie presents an emotive tale of survival, morality, growth, and the harsh realities of war.

In this war-torn narrative, Van Heflin portrays the rugged, wily character of Joe Trent – a middle-aged American businessman stuck in the Philippines during the Japanese invasion. He’s a hardy adventurer and ex-soldier, a character that Heflin brings to life with his veteran acting skills. Trent's pragmatic and often cynical outlook towards life and war forms a critical thread throughout the film, offering viewers insights into the brutalities of war.

James MacArthur plays a contrasting character, David McVey Jr., the naive son of an influential and affluent businessman who finds himself thrust into the terrifying reality of war. McVey Jr. is initially portrayed as a stereotypical wealthy brat with little understanding of life's hardships. As the movie progresses, however, he evolves under the rigid tutelage and questionable morality of Trent. MacArthur's performance allows a glance into the transformation of his character from a carefree wealthy child to a seasoned fighter, portraying the harsh education that war often offers.

Rita Moreno shines in the role of a local girl named Sisa, who becomes intricately linked with both Trent and McVey Jr. through a series of events. Moreno effortlessly captures the struggles of those caught in the crossfire of war, offering viewers an authentic representation of the human perseverance amidst tumultuous circumstances. The complex relationships that develop among these three characters form the emotional fulcrum of the narrative.

The film showcases the Japanese invasion of the Philippines during World War II, effectively depicting the turmoil and chaos of war-torn regions. Authentic representations of the local scenery, complemented by scenes of guerrilla warfare, offer a stark contrast between the idyllic landscapes and the raw violence of war. These detailed visuals add depth to the narrative and enhance the portrayal of hardship, survival, and the grim realities of war.

Cry of Battle goes beyond the portrayal of physical warfare to explore the psychological battles and moral dilemmas faced by characters as they navigate the brutality of war. It presents a fascinating study of human nature, investigating how ordinary people can be shaped or skewed by extraordinary circumstances. The film challenges the audience to question the distinction between right and wrong, moral and immoral, within the context of survival.

The script, penned by Bernard Gordon, effectively encapsulates the disparate perspectives of the different characters and their evolving attitudes towards the war. Lerner uses this intricate exploration of character to display the horrifying yet somehow humanising effects of violent conflicts on those involved. The dialogue is at once sharp and thought-provoking, driving the narrative and adding further dimensionality to the characters and their relationships.

Cry of Battle’s original score by prolific composer Richard Markowitz artfully accentuates the alternating moods of the film. Whether it's the tense undertones during combat scenes or the subtle emotional hues during quieter, reflective moments, the music contributes significantly to heightening the cinematic experience.

Underpinning the narrative is a sobering examination of World War II, commemorating the often-forgotten Philippine theatre of battle and giving voice to those who fought and suffered during that time. As such, Cry of Battle is more than just a war movie – it's a keen probe into the impacts of war, a moving character study, and a profound exploration of survival, growth, morality, and the complexities of human nature.

In conclusion, Cry of Battle is a compelling war drama that paints a stark vision of the horrors of war while also challenging its audience with deep, thematic questions. The strong performances by its lead actors, combined with poignant direction and script, contribute to a powerful cinematic experience. For fans of war movies and historical dramas or those interested in World War II’s lesser-known stories, Cry of Battle promises a gritty, thought-provoking viewing experience.