The read
Critics rate it 15 points higher than audiences do. It runs a compact 1h 9m.
Synopsis
Henry Fleming is a young Union soldier in the American Civil War. During his unit's first engagement, Henry flees the battlefield in fear. When he learns that the Union actually won the battle, shame over his cowardice leads him to lie to his friend Tom and the other soldiers, saying that he had been injured in battle. However, when he learns that his unit will be leading a charge against the enemy, Henry takes the opportunity to face his fears and redeem himself.
Ratings
IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes86%
Critics rate it 15 points higher than audiences do.
72 audience votes
Key crew
- John HustonDirector
- Albert BandWriter
- John HustonWriter
- Bronislau KaperOriginal Music Composer
Cast
- Audie MurphyThe Youth
- Bill MauldinThe Loud Soldier
- Douglas DickThe Lieutenant
- Royal DanoThe Tattered Man
- John DierkesJim Conklin - the Tall Soldier
- Arthur HunnicuttBill Porter
- Tim DurantThe General
- Andy DevineThe Cheery Soldier
- Robert EastonThompson
- William PhippsOfficer (uncredited)
- William SchallertUnion Soldier (uncredited)
- John HustonGrizzled Union Veteran (uncredited)
Stills
Themes
civil war