What Did You Do in the War, Daddy? Cast
The 1976 American comedy-drama film What Did You Do in the War, Daddy? directed by Dick Richards and starring Bob Newhart and Madeline Kahn is a nostalgic and humorous exploration of the experiences of soldiers during World War II. The film’s cast brings together a talented group of actors who deliver memorable performances.
The Cast
Here is the list of the main cast members:
- Bob Newhart as John Woodbridge, a former Army sergeant and current suburbanite
- Madeline Kahn as Toni Merritt, John’s wife
- John C. Astin as Charles Loring, John’s friend and former Army comrade
- Jessica Tandy as Mrs. Woodbridge, John’s mother
- Ricardo Montalban as General, a charismatic and flamboyant military leader
The Story
The film follows John Woodbridge, a former Army sergeant who has settled into a comfortable suburban life with his wife Toni. John is haunted by his wartime experiences and struggles to come to terms with his past. When his old Army comrade Charles Loring visits, John is forced to confront his memories and re-examine his actions during the war.
As the story unfolds, we learn about John’s experiences in the war through a series of flashbacks, where he recounts his stories to his wife and friends. These flashbacks show John’s journey from his early days in the Army to his eventual rise through the ranks, including a stint as a sergeant major in the Pacific Theater.
The Flashbacks
The flashbacks are where the film truly shines. Newhart’s performance as John is remarkable, and he brings a sense of depth and nuance to the character. The flashbacks also provide a unique insight into the experiences of soldiers during World War II, showing the camaraderie, the struggles, and the horrors of war.
The Themes
What Did You Do in the War, Daddy? explores several themes that were relevant to the post-war era. The film tackles the idea of nostalgia, highlighting the difficulties of transitioning from wartime to peacetime. It also touches on the theme of morality, as John grapples with the moral implications of his actions during the war.
The Comedy
Despite the serious themes, the film is ultimately a comedy. Newhart’s deadpan delivery and Kahn’s witty banter add a layer of humor to the story. The film’s comedic moments are expertly balanced with the more serious scenes, creating a unique tone that is both humorous and poignant.
The Legacy
What Did You Do in the War, Daddy? may not be a well-known film today, but it has left a lasting impact on American comedy. The film’s use of flashbacks and non-linear storytelling has influenced countless other films and TV shows. The cast’s performances have also been praised for their nuance and authenticity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, What Did You Do in the War, Daddy? is a unique and memorable film that explores the experiences of soldiers during World War II. The cast brings together a talented group of actors who deliver memorable performances. The film’s themes of nostalgia, morality, and comedy are expertly woven together to create a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Table: What Did You Do in the War, Daddy? Cast and Crew
Cast Member | Role |
---|---|
Bob Newhart | John Woodbridge |
Madeline Kahn | Toni Merritt |
John C. Astin | Charles Loring |
Jessica Tandy | Mrs. Woodbridge |
Ricardo Montalban | General |
Table: Awards and Nominations
Award | Year | Result |
---|---|---|
Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical (Bob Newhart) | 1977 | Nominated |
Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical (Madeline Kahn) | 1977 | Nominated |
BAFTA Award for Best Film Music (Dave Grusin) | 1977 | Nominated |
References:
- "What Did You Do in the War, Daddy?" (1976) IMDb
- "What Did You Do in the War, Daddy?" (1976) Rotten Tomatoes
- "What Did You Do in the War, Daddy?" (1976) Metacritic
- "What Did You Do in the War, Daddy?" (1976) Wikipedia