Mister Roberts (1955)

Within the volatile theatre of the South Pacific during the waning days of the Second World War, the audience finds Lt. (j.g.) Doug Roberts aboard the USS Reluctant, a vital re-supply vessel. While the echoes of victory resound throughout Europe, Roberts is enveloped in the unending stillness of the Pacific, yearning for a taste of the action he feels slipping away. Despite his fervent pleas for transfer to a combat vessel, the Reluctant's captain, Lt. Cmdr. Morton, firmly refuses, recognizing in Roberts an exceptional cargo officer who is an asset too valuable to lose. Roberts' world is made more vibrant by the ship's motley crew, a zany ensemble that he cares deeply about. He often finds himself acting as a buffer between his beloved crew and the draconic Captain Morton, a harsh disciplinarian who hasn't granted a shore leave in nearly a year. Among this eccentric cast is the slothful Ensign Pulver, a man who adroitly dodges work while profiting from his shrewd buying and selling. In a desperate bid to lift the crew's morale, Roberts strikes a deal with Captain Morton, agreeing to adhere to his orders without protest in exchange for much-desired shore leave for his men. This decision, however, is perceived as a betrayal by the crew, who feel let down by Roberts. But when the truth reveals itself—that it was Roberts who secured their shore leave—they repay his sacrifice in a manner uniquely their own. With minor disagreements escalating into full-blown conflicts aboard the USS Reluctant, "Mister Roberts" is a poignant, character-driven narrative of camaraderie and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of a global conflict. It's a compelling exploration of the human spirit and the lengths one man will go to in order to keep it aflame.

Mister Roberts is a comedy movie featuring Henry Fonda and directed by Joshua Logan.

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