Mister Roberts

Mister Roberts is a 1955 CinemaScope comedy-drama film directed by John Ford and Mervyn LeRoy, and starring Henry Fonda as Mister Roberts. Based on the 1946 novel and 1948 Broadway play, the film was nominated for the Best Picture and Best Sound, Recording Oscars; Jack Lemmon received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film takes place on an American Naval cargo ship the, USS Reluctant, during the waning days of World War II. The ship’s captain, Lieutenant Commander Morton is proud of his spotless record supplying the U.S. fleet. His command style is uncaring of the... crew’s working or emotional comfort. Morton’s executive officer/cargo chief Lieutenant Douglas Roberts has an excellent relationship with the crew, often bending the rules to allow them some leeway. In recognition of his service Morton receives a palm tree which he cherishes and keeps near the ship’s bridge. The crew despises both the tree and Morton as it is widely known that Roberts is responsible for the ship's efficiency. Roberts has grown tired of his dull duties.
more