“Submarine Command” (1951)

War

Running Time: 87 minutes

Written by: Jonathan Latimer 

Directed by: John Farrow

Featuring: William Holden, Nancy Olson and William Bendix

CPO Boyer: “Listen – I joined the navy to see the world, cruise the seven seas. What happens? I spend 12 years under water.”

“Submarine Command” is a 1951 American drama film directed by John Farrow, featuring a star-studded cast led by William Holden, Nancy Olson, and William Bendix. The film delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by a naval officer haunted by a decision made during wartime, offering a poignant exploration of duty, guilt, and redemption.

The plot centers around Lieutenant Commander Ken White (William Holden), a naval officer serving on a submarine during World War II. The film begins with a tense and gripping underwater sequence where White is forced to make a fateful decision to surface and save his crew, resulting in the submarine being attacked and his commanding officer killed. This decision haunts White, who carries the burden of guilt and self-doubt into his post-war life.

One of the film’s strengths is its ability to blend intense submarine warfare scenes with a deep, character-driven narrative. William Holden delivers a powerful performance as Ken White, effectively portraying a man struggling with his inner demons. Holden’s nuanced acting captures the complexity of a character torn between his sense of duty and his personal guilt. His journey towards self-forgiveness and redemption forms the emotional core of the film.

Nancy Olson plays Carol, White’s understanding and supportive wife. Olson brings warmth and empathy to her role, highlighting the emotional toll White’s inner turmoil takes on their relationship. The chemistry between Holden and Olson is palpable, adding depth to the personal stakes of the story.

William Bendix, as Chief Petty Officer Boyer, provides a solid supporting performance. His character serves as a bridge between White’s past and present, embodying the loyalty and camaraderie of the naval crew. Bendix’s portrayal is both grounded and emotionally resonant, offering a contrast to White’s internal struggle.

Director John Farrow’s handling of the film’s pacing and tension is commendable. The underwater sequences are particularly well-executed, creating a sense of claustrophobia and imminent danger that enhances the film’s dramatic impact. Farrow’s direction ensures that the film’s wartime and peacetime elements are seamlessly integrated, allowing the narrative to flow smoothly between action-packed scenes and more introspective moments.

The screenplay, written by Jonathan Latimer, is another strong point. Latimer effectively balances the film’s thematic elements, using dialogue and character interactions to explore the psychological aftermath of war. The script delves into the moral ambiguities of wartime decisions and the lingering effects of trauma, providing a thoughtful and engaging narrative.

Visually, “Submarine Command” benefits from its effective use of black-and-white cinematography. The stark contrasts and shadows in the underwater scenes amplify the tension and create a visually compelling experience. The film’s production design also deserves praise, particularly the realistic depiction of the submarine’s interior, which adds authenticity to the story.

Despite its strengths, “Submarine Command” is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the film’s pacing uneven, particularly in the transition between the intense wartime sequences and the slower, character-driven scenes. Additionally, while the film’s exploration of psychological themes is commendable, some aspects of White’s redemption arc might come across as predictable or overly sentimental.

“Submarine Command” intricately explores themes of duty, guilt, and the struggle for redemption. The protagonist, Lieutenant Commander Ken White, epitomizes the classic tortured hero, grappling with the profound consequences of his decisions. This thematic focus is emblematic of post-World War II cinema, where many films began to explore the psychological scars left by the conflict.

White’s internal conflict is rooted in his decision to surface the submarine, an action intended to save his crew but which ultimately led to the death of his commanding officer. This moral quandary raises questions about the nature of command and the heavy burden of responsibility carried by military leaders. The film doesn’t shy away from portraying the psychological toll of war, reflecting a broader societal effort to understand and process the collective trauma experienced by veterans.

The narrative structure of “Submarine Command” is reflective of this journey, oscillating between past and present. The wartime sequences are depicted in stark, gripping detail, providing a sharp contrast to the post-war scenes where White attempts to reintegrate into civilian life. This juxtaposition effectively underscores the lingering impact of his wartime experiences on his psyche.

William Holden’s portrayal of Ken White is the film’s cornerstone. Holden, known for his ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety, brings depth to White’s character. His performance captures the essence of a man haunted by his past yet striving to move forward. Holden’s expressive eyes and restrained demeanor communicate White’s inner turmoil, making his journey towards self-acceptance both believable and poignant.

Nancy Olson, as Carol White, complements Holden’s performance beautifully. Carol’s role is crucial as she represents the civilian world that Ken is trying to reconnect with. Olson’s portrayal is imbued with compassion and resilience, showcasing her character’s strength as she supports her husband through his struggles. The dynamic between Holden and Olson adds emotional weight to the film, illustrating the personal costs of war on relationships.

William Bendix’s role as Chief Petty Officer Boyer is another standout. Bendix, often cast in roles that emphasize loyalty and steadfastness, brings a sense of grounded realism to the film. Boyer’s unwavering support for White serves as a reminder of the bonds forged in the crucible of war, and Bendix’s performance provides a necessary counterbalance to Holden’s more introspective portrayal.

Director John Farrow’s craftsmanship is evident in the film’s technical execution. The underwater sequences are particularly notable for their tension and realism. Farrow employs tight framing and effective use of sound to create a claustrophobic atmosphere that heightens the suspense. These scenes are not only visually compelling but also serve to immerse the audience in the submarine’s confined environment, reflecting the characters’ psychological pressures.

The film’s black-and-white cinematography, handled by Lionel Lindon, enhances its dramatic impact. The stark contrasts and careful lighting contribute to the film’s somber mood, particularly in the flashback sequences. The visual style underscores the film’s themes, using shadows and light to symbolize the moral ambiguities and emotional depths of White’s journey.

“Submarine Command” was released in 1951, a time when America was grappling with the aftermath of World War II and the ongoing Korean War. The film’s exploration of the psychological effects of combat resonated with contemporary audiences, many of whom were veterans or had loved ones who served. This period saw a shift in war films from straightforward heroism to more nuanced portrayals of the human cost of conflict.

The film’s depiction of post-war adjustment reflects the broader societal challenges faced by returning veterans. Issues such as PTSD (though not named as such at the time), survivor’s guilt, and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life were becoming more prominent in public discourse. “Submarine Command” taps into these concerns, offering a cinematic exploration of themes that were deeply relevant to its audience.

Though not as widely remembered as some other war films of its era, “Submarine Command” holds a significant place in the genre. Its focus on the psychological dimensions of warfare paved the way for later films that would delve even deeper into these themes. The film’s balanced approach to action and character development serves as a template for how to craft compelling narratives that resonate on both an emotional and intellectual level.

In the broader context of William Holden’s career, “Submarine Command” is an important work that showcases his versatility as an actor. Coming off the success of films like “Sunset Boulevard,” Holden’s performance here reinforces his ability to portray complex, conflicted characters, a trait that would define many of his subsequent roles.

“Submarine Command” is a well-crafted and emotionally resonant film that offers a compelling blend of wartime action and character-driven drama. William Holden’s standout performance anchors the film, supported by strong performances from Nancy Olson and William Bendix. John Farrow’s direction and Jonathan Latimer’s screenplay combine to create a thoughtful exploration of duty, guilt, and redemption. While the film has its pacing issues, it remains a powerful and engaging depiction of the psychological aftermath of war. For fans of classic war dramas, “Submarine Command” is a noteworthy entry in the genre, offering both intense action and a poignant human story.