John Greanias Perceives Continuing Film Gift

The John Greanias Film Review finds that the Christmas week release (December 21, 1949) of Twelve O'Clock High was a gift that keeps on giving.  Produced just four years after the end of World War II, it was timely and meaningful to theater patrons in 1950.  The fictional story is factually based on the catastrophic losses suffered by U.S. Army B-17 Flying Fortress crews in 1942-43.  Gregory Peck was the perfect choice for the somber and determined commanding officer imported to be the agent of change, and he was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.  The competition was keen (Kirk Douglas, John Wayne, Richard Todd, Broderick Crawford and Peck).  Broderick Crawford won Best Actor for All the King's Men.  However, Dean Jagger won Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Twelve O'Clock, and the film was one of five nominated for Best Motion Picture.
     Great movie, right!  But here's the thing.  This film is a must see for anyone and everyone who has, or will have, the responsibility to walk into an organizational environment and do whatever it takes to turn failure into success.  The hostility, tough calls, uncertainty of success, allies and opponents, are all on display.  If you are the guy or gal in the center of the turnaround storm, viewing this film will give you a sense of companionship as you watch Gregory Peck struggle with the great weight of his responsibility, and perhaps you will come away with a comforting perspective regarding your demanding work.
     Finally, just for fun count the number of females appearing in the film, their minutes on screen, and their words spoken.  Remember, almost all of this story takes place in England, at an airbase located in a civilian community.  Such a focus on the primary storyline!
John Greanias Copyright 2013

JOHN GREANIAS FILM REVIEW-----THE PRODUCTION CODE YEARS

The John Greanias Film Review will be limited to the critical evaluation of films released during years 1934 through 1967.  Commencing in 1934, the Production Code Administration (PCA) initiated a formal process for self-regulation of the film industry to promote high moral standards in films released for public viewing.  After many years of strict enforcement, the morality displayed in films began to change significantly in the early 1960s, and the PCA self-regulation process finally ended with the adoption of the Motion Picture Association of America film rating system in 1968.  Films released during the PCA years were restricted to narrow boundaries when dealing with violence, drugs, sex, coarse language and other conduct deemed to be inconsistent with good moral behavior.  Did the endeavor to promote high moral standards result in a plethora of lackluster films or, instead, did the actors, directors and screen writers achieve exceptionally high artistic standards during the PCA years?  WE SHALL SEE!