The Hollywood War Film: 1942-1944

TRADITIONALLY, the motion-picture industry has maintained that the primary function of the Hollywood film is to entertain. However, in a world shattered by conflict it has become increasingly evident that only through solidly founded and dynamic understanding among the peoples of the world can we establish and maintain an enduring peace. At the same time it has become clear that the film can play an important part in the creation of One World. The motion picture can help the people of the world to share and understand one another's viewpoints, customs, and ways of living; it can interpret the common needs and hopes of all peoples everywhere. It is well within the power of the film to reduce psychological distance between people in various parts of the world, just as the airplane has reduced physical distance. Whether or not the picture makers of the world will meet this challenge remains to be seen. In the case of the Hollywood picture makers perhaps some indication of the answer to this question may be found in an examination of the way in which they met their responsibilities to their nation and to the United Nations during wartime.