Sands Of Iwo Jima

UK Release Date. 20 November 1950

Certification. A
Running Time. 1 hour 40 mins

Director. Allan Dwan
Cast. John Agar, Adele Mara, Forrest Tucker, John Wayne.
Rating. 52%

Review.

Sands Of Iwo Jima was released in the US a mere four years after the end of World War II. From the very outset, and the rousing 'The Marines' Hymn' to the historical note in the opening credits introducing the three living survivors of the iconic image of the flag-raising on Mount Suribachi, Sands Of Iwo Jima feels like a US Marines promotional film. 

"To the United States Marine Corps whose exploits and valor have left a lasting impression on the world and in the hearts of their countrymen. Appreciation gratefully acknowledged for their assistance and participation which made this picture possible."

Sands Of Iwo Jima tells the story of a squad of US Marines as they prepare for some of the most notorious Pacific conflicts of World War II. The recreation of the beach landings at Tarawa Atoll and the island of Iwo Jima are mightily impressive considering the age of the film. Director Allan Dwan cleverly uses genuine combat footage from World War II to lend an air of authenticity to proceedings. And whilst not delivering the gory detail of modern offerings such as Saving Private Ryan, Flags Of Our Fathers or Hacksaw Ridge, the scale of the set pieces is nonetheless imposing. 

But ultimately, Sands Of Iwo Jima is John Wayne's movie. It would be all too easy to suggest that John Wayne is simply playing John Wayne. A caricature. A cowboy in the guise of a US Marine. An old-school masculine hero with a well-hidden heart. Wayne's character, Sergeant John M. Stryker is at his best in the tense, sweat-drenched moments of battle. He portrays a cold-blooded, no-nonsense, tough as nails drill sergeant, but this was before the cold-blooded, no-nonsense, tough as nails drill was a cliché. His aim is clear, "move like one man, think like one man, if you don't - you'll be dead!" His seemingly merciless approach transforms the new recruits with a universal dislike for their sergeant into a squad of combat-ready US Marines.

There is a nuance to Wayne's performance and it is no surprise to learn that John Wayne was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in Sands Of Iwo Jima.