MacArthur

19772h 10m Directed by Joseph Sargent
6.3
(86 votes)
DramaHistoryWar

Overview

The film portrays MacArthur's life from 1942, before the Battle of Bataan, to 1952, the time after he had been removed from his Korean War command by President Truman for insubordination, and is recounted in flashback as he visits West Point.

MacArthur

A General's Legacy: Unpacking the Complexity of "MacArthur"

Clara Moreau
Clara MoreauDec 25, 2025
The 1977 film "MacArthur" is a biographical drama that attempts to capture the essence of one of America's most iconic military leaders, General Douglas MacArthur. The movie, starring Gregory Peck as the titular character, navigates the complexities of MacArthur's life, from his early days as a commander in the Pacific during World War II to his eventual dismissal by President Truman during the Korean War. Through a series of flashbacks, the film recounts MacArthur's experiences, offering a glimpse into the mind of a man who was both revered and reviled by his contemporaries.

The film's strongest aspect is undoubtedly Gregory Peck's performance, which brings a sense of gravity and nuance to the role of MacArthur. Peck's portrayal is multifaceted, conveying the general's unwavering confidence, unshakeable conviction, and deep sense of patriotism. The supporting cast, including Ed Flanders and Dan O'Herlihy, delivers solid performances, adding depth to the narrative. The film's attention to historical detail is also commendable, with meticulous recreations of key events and settings that transport the viewer to a bygone era. However, the pacing can be uneven at times, with some scenes feeling overly long or disjointed, which may test the patience of modern audiences.

Despite these minor quibbles, "MacArthur" remains a thought-provoking and engaging film that raises important questions about the nature of leadership, duty, and loyalty. The movie's exploration of MacArthur's tumultuous relationship with President Truman is particularly compelling, highlighting the tensions between military and civilian authority. The film's themes of honor, duty, and country are timeless and resonant, making "MacArthur" a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in history, politics, or the human condition. While it may not be a perfect film, "MacArthur" is a worthy tribute to a complex and fascinating figure, and its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, making it a recommended viewing experience for those seeking a cinematic portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history.

CAST

Gregory Peck
Gregory Peck
Douglas MacArthur
Ivan Bonar
Ivan Bonar
Lt. Gen. Richard K. Sutherland
Ward Costello
Ward Costello
Gen. George C. Marshall
Nicolas Coster
Nicolas Coster
Colonel Sidney Huff
Marj Dusay
Marj Dusay
Jean MacArthur
Ed Flanders
Ed Flanders
President Harry S. Truman
Warde Donovan
Warde Donovan
General Shepherd
Branscombe Richmond
Branscombe Richmond
Korean Soldier
Jerry Holland
Aide
Art Fleming
The Secretary

Trailer

Recent Reviews

Mikaela

Mikaela

Jan 7, 2026

"Mikaela" is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller that takes full advantage of its unique setting - ...

Bureau 749

Bureau 749

Jan 7, 2026

"Bureau 749" is a thought-provoking science fiction film that delves into the life of a traumatized ...

Anaconda

Anaconda

Jan 7, 2026

The 2025 release of Anaconda brings a fresh twist to the classic horror-adventure genre, blending el...

The Unholy Trinity

The Unholy Trinity

Jan 7, 2026

The Unholy Trinity, set against the unforgiving landscape of 1870s Montana, is a Western adventure t...

The Great Flood

The Great Flood

Jan 7, 2026

The Great Flood, released in 2025, is a science fiction adventure drama that promises to deliver an ...

Avatar: Fire and Ash

Avatar: Fire and Ash

Jan 7, 2026

James Cameron's latest installment in the Avatar saga, "Avatar: Fire and Ash", is a visually stunnin...

Cyborg She

Cyborg She

Jan 1, 2026

"Cyborg She" is a fascinating blend of action, comedy, romance, and science fiction that tells the s...

Star Trek

Star Trek

Jan 1, 2026

The 2009 Star Trek film, directed by J.J. Abrams, is a masterclass in rebooting a beloved franchise ...

Planet of the Apes

Planet of the Apes

Jan 1, 2026

The 2001 remake of "Planet of the Apes" is a film that sparks intense debate among fans and critics ...

Star Wreck: In the Pirkinning

Star Wreck: In the Pirkinning

Jan 1, 2026

Star Wreck: In the Pirkinning is a Finnish science fiction comedy that has garnered a cult following...

Timecop 2: The Berlin Decision

Timecop 2: The Berlin Decision

Jan 1, 2026

The original "Timecop" film, released in 1994, was a moderately successful blend of science fiction ...

Yatterman

Yatterman

Jan 1, 2026

The 2009 Japanese film "Yatterman" is a wildly entertaining and action-packed adaptation of the clas...