[7]

Three orphans grow up together as brothers under the care of a kindly benefactor. When they’re old enough, they join the Foreign Legion, but their dreams of adventure are dashed when a sinister sergeant turns their first outpost into a last stand. There are shades of Gunga Din here, but it’s not nearly as carefree or uplifting as that movie. The final act is surprisingly dark and poignant, especially when childhood promises are fulfilled. Gary Cooper, Ray Milland, and Robert Preston (The Music Man) give nicely restrained performances which lend authenticity to director William Wellman’s depiction of war and brotherly love. As a war veteran with steel in his skull to show for it, it’s great to see Wellman “keeping it real” when so many other Hollywood war stories of the time played more like recruitment films. There’s also a mysterious sub-plot (what Hitchcock would call ‘the McGuffin’) involving a precious jewel and which brother might be in possession of it. It’s a great plot device that pays off well and keeps the story moving forward. Look for Singin’ in the Rain‘s Donald O’Connor as younger version of Gary Cooper’s character.

Oscar Nominations: Art Direction, Supporting Actor (Brian Donlevy)