Midway

19762h 12m Directed by Jack Smight
6.6
(311 votes)
ActionDramaHistoryWar

Overview

This war drama depicts the U.S. and Japanese forces in the naval Battle of Midway, which became a turning point for Americans during World War II.

Midway

A Relic of War Cinema: "Midway" Still Packs a Punch

Clara Moreau
Clara MoreauDec 25, 2025
The 1976 film "Midway" is a classic war drama that recounts the pivotal Battle of Midway, a naval clash between the United States and Japan during World War II. Directed by Jack Smight, the movie boasts an ensemble cast, including Charlton Heston, Henry Fonda, and Robert Mitchum, and features a mix of action, drama, and historical significance. While the film's special effects and production values may seem dated by today's standards, "Midway" remains a compelling and informative watch, offering a unique glimpse into one of the most crucial battles in American history.

The film's strongest aspect is its attention to historical detail, with the screenwriters taking great care to recreate the events leading up to and during the Battle of Midway. The movie's depiction of the battle itself is intense and suspenseful, with a combination of actual footage and recreated scenes that effectively convey the chaos and confusion of war. The cast delivers solid performances, with Heston and Fonda standing out as the leaders of the American forces. However, some of the supporting characters feel somewhat one-dimensional, and the dialogue can be clunky at times, which detracts from the overall impact of the film.

Despite these flaws, "Midway" is still a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the human cost of war and the importance of strategic decision-making. The movie's themes of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism are timeless and resonant, and the film's historical significance cannot be overstated. The Battle of Midway was a turning point in the war in the Pacific, and the film does an excellent job of conveying the significance of this event. Overall, "Midway" is a worthwhile watch for history buffs and fans of classic war dramas, although it may not appeal to viewers who prefer more modern and fast-paced action films. With its engaging storyline, strong performances, and historical importance, "Midway" remains a notable entry in the war genre, even if it does show its age in some respects.

CAST

Charlton Heston
Charlton Heston
Capt. Matthew Garth
Henry Fonda
Henry Fonda
Adm. Chester W. Nimitz
James Coburn
James Coburn
Capt. Vinton Maddox
Glenn Ford
Glenn Ford
Rear Admiral Raymond A. Spruance
Hal Holbrook
Hal Holbrook
Cmdr. Joseph Rochefort
Robert Mitchum
Robert Mitchum
Vice Adm. William F. 'Bull' Halsey Jr.
Toshirō Mifune
Toshirō Mifune
Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto
Cliff Robertson
Cliff Robertson
Cmdr. Jessop
Robert Wagner
Robert Wagner
Lt.Cmdr. Blake
Robert Webber
Robert Webber
Admiral Jack Fletcher

Trailer

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