The Long Voyage Home

About the Long Voyage Home

"The Long Voyage Home" is a 1940 American drama film directed by John Ford, based on four one-act plays by American playwright Eugene O'Neill. The movie is set during World War II on a British tramp steamer laden with ammunition. The main plot revolves around the lives and vibe of the seamen, as they interact with each other on the dramatized ship, threatened by the possibilities of submarine attacks.

Making / Production

The movie was produced by John Ford and Merian C. Cooper and includes elements of both drama and war genres. The film originally came into development due to John Wayne's interest in featuring in a John Ford movie, which eventually got adapted from Eugene O'neill's plays.

Actors

• John Wayne as Ole Olson: Wayne played the Swedish sailor Ole, a role that was a deviation from his typical cowboy persona. He aced the character, creating an endearing and emotional performance.
• Thomas Mitchell as Driscoll: Mitchell plays the role of a hard-drinking veteran seaman with great skill, adding layers to his character.
• Ian Hunter as Smitty: Hunter plays the mysterious Smitty, bringing the character to life with excellent nuance and depth.
• Barry Fitzgerald as Cocky: Fitzgerald plays the character with charm, depicting a versatile sailor.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was Ford's second adaptation of an O'Neill play, having directed "The Long Voyage Home" in 1930 as a silent film.
• Though John Wayne was an established actor by 1940, this movie has him in a role quite different from his typical cowboy roles.

Awards

"The Long Voyage Home" received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Screenplay, Best Black-and-White Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Music Score and Best Special Effects.

Quotes

• "Tis a brave, sweet picture you're making, seeing yourself a captain, isn't it, lad?" - Thomas Mitchell as Driscoll
• "Aye, that's the sea; she's a good shipmate... sometimes." - Barry Fitzgerald as Cocky.

Music, Soundtrack

• Music plays a critical role in this movie, adding to the intense plot with well-crafted soundtracks. The score by Richard Hageman plays in the background as the undulating rhythm of the sea, setting the atmospheric mood of being on a ship.