Hollywood Victory: The Movies, Stars, and Stories of World War II

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From the Turner Classic Movies Library: Film and history enthusiasts will be captivated by the untold story of Hollywood's role in World War II. During this critical period, the film industry united with government support to defend American values against a grave global threat. Initially marked by isolationism as studios aimed to preserve the European market, Hollywood's stance transformed into fervent support for the Allied cause. The industry produced war films that depicted battles and highlighted the reasons for fighting, alongside "home-front" narratives that aimed to uplift troops’ spirits. Even musicals and comedies contributed by promoting the Good Neighbor Policy with American allies. Stars like Carole Lombard, who tragically died while promoting war bonds, and Bob Hope, along with Marlene Dietrich, actively entertained troops near battlefronts, while others like James Stewart and Clark Gable served in uniform. Bette Davis and John Garfield founded the Hollywood Canteen, a refuge for soldiers. Renowned filmmakers such as Orson Welles, Walt Disney, and Alfred Hitchcock paused their successful careers to create films that reinforced alliances and boosted recruitment. This narrative of unprecedented unity and the willingness to risk everything for humanity unfolds in a compelling, photo-rich account of Hollywood's contribution to the war effort.