Go for Broke!

Go for Broke! is a poignant and powerful war film released in 1951 under the direction of Robert Pirosh. The film stars Van Johnson, Lane Nakano, George Miki, and several other talented actors, offering a nuanced blend of action and emotion.

Set in the gloomy backdrop of World War II, Go for Broke! is an audacious account of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. This regiment was an actual infantry regiment of the United States Army composed of Japanese-American soldiers who fought with distinction during the war. The title, Go for Broke!, is a pidgin English phrase common in Hawaii that means "risk everything," which was also the motto of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

Van Johnson stars as the film's lead, Lieutenant Michael Grayson, a prejudiced Texan who, after being transferred from his comfortable position with the 36th division, finds himself in the command of the 442nd Regiment. The narrative follows a culturally diverse group of Japanese-American recruits, highlighting their challenges, courage, and camarity, intertwined with expertly crafted war sequences.

Many of the actors in the film, including Lane Nakano and George Miki who play key roles, were actual members of the 442nd Regiment, bringing an enigmatic sense of realism to their performances. This element of authenticity strengthens the emotional resonance of the film, giving the cinematic storytelling a distinct edge.

Go for Broke! is a commendable profile of an important piece of American and Japanese-American history. The war scenes in the movie are riveting and realistic, depicting the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers during the war. On the other hand, the film is equally powerful in its depiction of the Nisei soldiers' struggle to fight for a country that questions their loyalty due to their Japanese ancestry.

Van Johnson's portrayal of his character is nuanced and effective. His depiction of Lieutenant Grayson is remarkable. He convincingly displays a transformation from being prejudice against his soldiers to becoming their most ardent supporter. He brings a raw energy to the role that enhances the character's complexity and adds another dimension to his performance.

The supporting cast is also excellent, with Nakano and Miki delivering memorable performances. They are able to portray the hardships faced by the Nisei soldiers with sensitivity and authenticity. The characters, each with their unique identities, collectively represent the fierce determination and unwavering spirit of the 442nd Regiment.

What sets Go for Broke! apart is that it isn't just a war film; it's a profound exploration of racism, acceptance, friendship, and loyalty, seasoned with the intensity and chaos of war. Its unique features are the genuine portrayals of human relationships and the assortment of cultural dynamics that offers a profound commentary on complex societal issues.

The director and screenwriter, Robert Pirosh, has done a brilliant job creating an accurate representation of this chapter of history. He was a well-established filmmaker, already a recipient of an Academy Award for his work on Battleground (1949). Pirosh’s direction and storytelling, alongside the powerful performances from the cast, make the film an engaging and moving narrative that truly goes for broke!

Go for Broke! is an emotionally driven and action-packed classic war film of the 1950s that expertly portrays the lesser-known narrative of the 442nd Regiment during World War II. Its compelling story, impressive acting, and beautiful direction make it worth a watch for all fans of historical dramas and war films. This film succeeds not only in entertaining viewers but also educating them about a significant chapter in American history. It is a fitting tribute to the 442nd Regimental Combat Team whose bravery and sacrifice will forever be engraved in the annals of history.