PT 109
Dramatization of President John F. Kennedy's war time experiences during which he captained a PT boat, took it to battle and had it sunk by a Japanese destroyer. He and the survivors had to make their way to an island, find food and shelter and signal the Navy for rescue.
Insights
Plot Summary
The film chronicles the true story of Lieutenant John F. Kennedy's command of PT-109 during World War II. After his boat is rammed and sunk by a Japanese destroyer, Kennedy bravely leads his surviving crew through treacherous waters and enemy territory. He must use his resourcefulness and determination to navigate the miles of ocean to reach safety and alert the nearest base to rescue his men.
Critical Reception
PT 109 was a moderately successful film that aimed to dramatize a heroic World War II incident involving future President John F. Kennedy. While it garnered some attention for its historical subject matter and earnest portrayal, critics were divided on its overall effectiveness as a war film. Audiences, however, were drawn to the true-life adventure and the portrayal of Kennedy as a young leader.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its historical account of a significant wartime event.
- The film's pacing and dramatic elements were considered by some to be somewhat conventional for the genre.
- Cliff Robertson's performance as the young Kennedy was generally well-received.
Google audience: Audience reception data for this film on Google is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in Jamaica, and a real PT boat was used for many of the scenes.
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