The 1940s were known for several things including swing dancing, The Andrew Sisters, and of course, World War II. During this decade, there was a lot of uncertainty regarding the war. Yet, the 1940s were also a time when the country came together and supported one another. Women found jobs and went out to work, neighbors helped neighbors, and everyone came together to help the war effort (except those who weren't allowed).
Besides the turmoil of World War II, the 40s was a great time for the world of Hollywood, especially when it came to war drama films. During these 10 years, we got classics like Casablanca and Notorious, two very different pictures but both extremely well-made and infinitely rewatched, even almost 80 years later. In addition to these two great masterpieces, here are some other memorable war movies from the 1940s.
Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo is a 1944 war drama. Amidst the horrors of World War II, James H. Doolittle (Spencer Tracy) leads his team of Air Force pilots in a 'successful' mission bombing Japan. However, on the way back to the U.S., many of Doolittle's comrades run out of fuel. One of those pilots is Capt. Ted Lawson (Van Johnson), who crash lands on the sea just off the coast of China and must fight for his life to make it safely back home to his pregnant wife. While the first half of the film starts slow, the second half is action-packed and features an epic air combat sequence that's still impressive today.
They Were Expendable follows Lt. "Rusty" Ryan (John Wayne) and his friend Lt. Brickley (Robert Montgomery) as they take their squadron of PT boats into battle. The boats prove their worth as they patrol the seas and take down Japanese planes and enemy ships. As the title hints, the film explores the idea that soldiers are expendable in a war, but that their sacrifices serve a greater purpose, to achieve victory. After all, no war is won without casualties. They Were Expendable is a realistic film that perfectly captures the doom and gloom of war.
Related: Here Are Some of the Best Cinematic Historical Dramas
In Twelve O'Clock High, strict General Savage (Gregory Peck) is asked to take over a B-17 bomber unit consisting of 12 men. These men are suffering from low morale and confidence until General Savage (true to his name) whips them into shape and gets them ready to fight. Now, men who once resisted General Savage trust him with their lives and will follow his order till the end, if necessary. This 1949 epic war drama features a strong performance from Gregory Peck, one of the prominent actors of the 40s. His portrayal of the hard-as-nails general earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor.
Sergeant York is another Gary Cooper film, 1941 biographical film highlighting the life of Alvin C. York, one of the most respected and decorated American soldiers who fought in World War I. The film follows York as he starts from humble beginnings with a dream to purchase land and become a farmer. After he is drafted to fight in the war, he struggles with his conscience as a pacifist Quaker, wanting to fight but then unsure if such an act is immoral, as killing goes against his Christian beliefs.
Related: Here Are Some of the Best Historical TV Shows of All Time
After finally making a sad peace with his decision to take up arms, he fights courageously in the Battles of the Meuse-Argonne and afterward, is decorated and hailed as a national hero. For his take on the title role, Gary Cooper garnered an Oscar for Best Actor which was well-earned for his rich, multilayered depiction of complex religious themes and moral questions.
What happens when nightclub owner Rick Blaine (played by Humphrey Bogart), sees his former flame Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) and her rebel husband Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid) hiding in his establishment from Germans? Does he turn in Victor? Rekindle his love with Ilsa? Or help them escape? Rick struggles to do the right thing while following his heart.
In the end, Rick makes a tough decision and teaches us that not all movies have to end in the traditional sense of the hero getting the girl. Casablanca is one of those classic movies worth rewatching over and over and is full of memorable quotes. "Here's Looking At You Kid."
Directed and produced by Alfred Hitchcock, the master of suspense and mystery, Notorious follows an espionage operation between two spies: Alicia (Ingrid Bergman) and Devlin (Cary Grant), who gradually fall in love. Like many of Hitchcock's films, this one is full of vivid imagery, stunning shots, romance, and plenty of tension. Notorious has aged better than fine wine and features a climax with a slow-moving staircase scene that has been duplicated for years. Considered by some to be one of Hitchcock's best films, this 1946 romance/spy thriller has it all: a love triangle, a complicated plot with twists and turns, and scenes that will linger with you long after the credits roll.