As for the argument that it should be considered in context with its time, Citizen Kane was made the same year.

I believe that the comment "in context with it's time" was meant to point out that the movie was made to bolster American moral after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and that for a war movie of it's time, it was not only high budget, but well done. I wouldn't argue for a second that "Citizen Kane" was a better picture, in all aspects, but, was it a picture that instilled hope for the future in the American citizen? No, it was not.

If compared to any contemporary film of the day, "Sergeant York" was really no better, nor any worse than the majority. It's unique feature was that it told the story (albeit Hollywood style) of a true American hero, who also was able to furnish "technical guidance" to the films directors and actors.

I am sure I will offend many of the nostalgics on this forum, but while "Sergeant York" may not be the worst military-themed movie ever made, it's right up there. The cornball dialogue, obviously fake back-drops, and generally poor acting make it one of the worst I've ever seen.

As for the "cornball dialogue," that my friend was how the average citizen spoke in those days of the early 1900's. It is no more corny than any earlier manner of speech. Regarding the "fake back-drops," 90% of any Hollywood movie was shot on a sound stage, and it would be a little unfair to suggest that it should have been "shot-on-site" as that part of the world was occupied by Nazi Germany at the time. I imagine that a "European" looking site could have been found, but that just wasn't a part of Hollywood movies during those times. Acting? No better, nor no worse than the average. Other than Orsen Wells, I can't say the acting by the supporting actors was any better in "Citizen Kane."

My opinion.

Eric

And did you ever notice that the term "my friend" rarely ever means that?

Actually, I consider those folks who deem to partake in these forums to be just that, friends. Or at least, someone who enjoys some of the same things that give me joy.

Unless they decide to be something else. You making a statement?

Eric

I believe that the comment "in context with it's time" was meant to point out that the movie was made to bolster American moral after the attack on Pearl Harbor

It appears that I was wrong about the movies original intent, "to bolster moral after Pearl Harbor," but I believe it was made to bolster the moral of American people during a dark time in the world. I've got a disc that includes "GungHo," "Go for Broke," and "A Walk in the Sun" on it. Great cinema when compared to todays movies? No, but I still like to pull it out and watch one once in a while. If I had a Model T (now there is a collectible that has increased in value), why I believe I'd like to drive it to work on a nice sunny day. But no trips to the beach.

Eric