Sergeant York
Released - September, 1941 
Directed By - Howard Hawks
Starring – Gary Cooper (Alvin York), Walter Brennan (Pastor Rosier Pile), Joan Leslie (Gracie Williams), George Tobias (“Pusher” Ross), Stanley Ridges (Major Buxton).
Description – A very enjoyable true story of a Tennessee pacifist who is drafted into the military during World War I. Alvin York is a deeply religious Tennessee farmer who tries to avoid military service due to his religious convictions.
Commanding officer Major Buxton convinces him to stay with the promise that he will never be sent into combat. During the course of his basic training, the Army realizes just what a spectacular shot Alvin is and immediately give him a promotion.
When Alvin’s unit is sent to Europe, he has no choice but to participate in the conflict. After seeing many of his friends killed, his doubt regarding the necessity of this war and his participation in it disappear.
NOTABLE: This motion picture won two Oscar’s; Best Actor in a Leading Role (Gary Cooper), and Best Film Editing. The film was also nominated for nine more; Best Picture, Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Actress in a Supporting Role, Best Director, Best Writing, Original Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Music, and Best Sound.
The American Film Institute has ranked this film 57th on it’s 100 most inspirational American movies list.
This was the highest-grossing movie of the year.
Alvin York was World War I’s most decorated American hero.
Personal Comment: A highly entertaining and intelligent film with very good performances by all; as enjoyable today as it was in 1941.
Sergeant York (Two-Disc Special Edition)
Enjoy browsing the Hollywood Movie Memories Film Store
Tags: 1940's war, academy awards, AFI 100 most inspirational, gary cooper, george tobias, howard hawks, joan leslie, oscar nominations, stanley ridges, walter brennan, world war I
