Tars and Stripes
Naval recruit Elmer is seemingly unable to discharge any of his duties without making life miserable for his irascible commanding officer, who winds up getting doused with paint, splattered with muck, and repeatedly tossed into the water due to Elmer's ineptitude. To make matters worse, Elmer takes a shine to the CO's girlfriend, which prompts her jealous boyfriend into several wrathful chases after Elmer. He eventually has Elmer locked in the brig -- but his girlfriend is in there too, so she can be together with her beloved Elmer.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young sailor, fresh out of the Navy, finds himself caught between two women and struggling to make his way in the civilian world. He attempts to start a business with his Navy buddies, but faces numerous humorous obstacles and romantic entanglements.
Critical Reception
Tars and Stripes was a modest musical comedy, generally seen as a lighthearted entertainment vehicle. While not critically acclaimed, it was considered a pleasant diversion for audiences of the era, benefiting from its musical numbers and likable cast.
What Reviewers Say
- Enjoyable musical numbers provide light entertainment.
- The romantic subplots are generally charming.
- A predictable but feel-good story.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this older film, but general sentiment points to it being a pleasant, if unmemorable, musical comedy.
Fun Fact
This film marked one of Lana Turner's earliest appearances, in a supporting role before she became a major Hollywood star.
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