The Plot Thickens: Episode "The Commander" – Detailed Summary
Introduction to John Ford's Background and Military Aspirations
Timestamp: [00:14] – [02:17]
The episode opens with host Ben Mankiewicz delving into the early life of acclaimed director John Ford. By 1942, Ford had amassed numerous Academy Award nominations and had secured three Oscars for Best Director. Contrary to the typical Hollywood lifestyle, Ford distanced himself from the glamour and prestige of fame. His father, Dan Ford, highlights this sentiment:
Dan Ford [00:35]: "I never cared that much. Just as a way of making a living like the man digging the ditch."
Despite his disinterest in Hollywood's allure, Ford was driven by a profound desire to serve in the military, reflecting a deep-seated patriotism inherited from his family.
Dan Ford [00:53]: "One of the great honors in American citizen habits wear the uniform of this country at some time in weather."
Ford's relentless attempts to join the military—from aspiring to the Naval Academy to combat photography in World War I—were repeatedly thwarted by physical limitations such as poor vision. His eventual enlistment in the Naval Reserves was motivated by his marriage to Mary McBride Smith, who hailed from a distinguished military family.
Formation of the Field Photo Service
Timestamp: [02:25] – [10:14]
Mary McBride Smith’s military lineage added pressure on Ford to prove his American identity. John Wayne encapsulates this dynamic:
John Wayne [03:03]: "Yes."
Ford's ingenuity led him to create the Field Photographic Service, an unofficial military reconnaissance unit comprising over 100 Hollywood professionals. Film historian Mark Harris elucidates Ford's foresight:
Mark Harris [08:44]: "Well, Field photo was really largely John Ford's idea."
Ford's unit emphasized military-style discipline blended with filmmaking expertise. Biographer Scott Iman emphasizes the high caliber of Ford’s recruits:
Scott Iman [12:44]: "He recruited high-end industry professionals... established or soon-to-be recognized forces in the film industry."
Notable members included Robert Parrish, Greg Toland, and Mark Armistead—each bringing significant talent and dedication to the unit. Their training was rigorous, incorporating drills and film production exercises designed to prepare them for wartime documentation.
Battle of Midway and the Filming
Timestamp: [22:37] – [27:57]
Ford’s commitment was put to the test during the Battle of Midway. As the Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on December 7, 1941, Ford was on-site with his team, capturing the chaos and devastation of the battle. Despite being wounded by shrapnel, Ford continued to film, prioritizing the human element of warfare over mere combat footage.
Dan Ford [24:25]: "But not one minute of that film was ever shown anywhere in America."
The raw footage Ford captured highlighted not only the destruction but also the bravery and fear of the soldiers. However, complications arose when Greg Toland's documentary, "December 7th," portrayed Japanese Americans as potential spies, conflicting with military objectives and fueling racial prejudices prevalent at the time.
Creation and Impact of the Midway Documentary
Timestamp: [32:38] – [38:32]
Undeterred by military opposition, Ford smuggled the genuine footage back to Los Angeles, bypassing censorship to present an unvarnished portrayal of war's toll. The resulting 18-minute documentary, "Battle of Midway," emphasized loss and sacrifice over victory, a narrative that resonated deeply with audiences.
Mark Harris [34:14]: "It's about military funerals. It's about the idea that some of those young men... did not come back."
To ensure governmental support, Ford ingeniously included footage of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s son, Jimmy Roosevelt, who had fought in the battle. This personal touch persuaded FDR to endorse the film, leading to widespread screenings and an Academy Award for Best Documentary, Short Subject.
John Ford [37:27]: "Nobody spoke from the time that that shot was on the screen until the end."
Relationship with the Military and OSS
Timestamp: [10:38] – [23:43]
Ford’s collaboration with William "Wild Bill" Donovan of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) was pivotal. Donovan recognized Ford’s potential to influence public perception through film and granted him significant autonomy. However, this independence sometimes led to friction, especially when Toland's portrayal of Japanese Americans contradicted military narratives.
Despite these challenges, Ford’s dedication earned him the trust and recognition of military leaders. His ability to navigate bureaucratic obstacles and prioritize authentic storytelling solidified his unit’s role in wartime documentation.
Later Missions and Relationship with John Wayne
Timestamp: [29:06] – [37:52]
Following his commendable work at Midway, Ford was slated for another critical mission: documenting the D-Day invasion. Although Ford claimed to have filmed the Normandy landings, the footage remains elusive, raising questions about its existence and Ford’s legacy.
Parallel to his military endeavors, Ford’s personal life intertwined closely with Hollywood icons like John Wayne. After being wounded at Midway, Ford's recovery at home was supported by Wayne, highlighting a deep bond:
John Wayne [30:01]: "We'd go to the Hollywood Derby and would have dinner. And Duke sat there and played this Da da da da da di di Pancharia song."
Biographer Scott Iman sheds light on their relationship:
Scott Iman [31:38]: "Privately, Ford is a loving father figure, almost invariably supportive, affectionate. But in public, he didn't feel he could afford to be like that."
This duality underscored the complexities of Ford's character—his stoic professionalism juxtaposed with genuine personal connections.
Conclusion and Legacy
Timestamp: [37:52] – [40:58]
"The Commander" encapsulates John Ford’s multifaceted role as a filmmaker and war correspondent. His unwavering commitment to capturing the true essence of war, coupled with his ability to challenge military narratives, underscores his enduring legacy. Despite facing institutional pushback and personal hardships, Ford's work at Midway remains a testament to his vision and resilience.
The episode concludes by pondering the mysterious disappearance of Ford’s D-Day footage, leaving listeners with an enduring intrigue about one of cinema’s most influential figures.
Notable Quotes
- Dan Ford [00:35]: "I never cared that much. Just as a way of making a living like the man digging the ditch."
- John Wayne [03:03]: "Yes."
- Mark Harris [08:44]: "Well, Field photo was really largely John Ford's idea."
- Greg Toland [26:03]: "This really happened."
- Dan Ford [24:25]: "But not one minute of that film was ever shown anywhere in America."
- Scott Iman [31:38]: "Privately, Ford is a loving father figure, almost invariably supportive, affectionate. But in public, he didn't feel he could afford to be like that."
Final Thoughts
"The Commander" offers an in-depth exploration of John Ford's lesser-known military contributions, highlighting his dedication to authentic storytelling and his complex relationship with both the military and his peers in Hollywood. Through meticulous research and engaging narration, Ben Mankiewicz brings to light the extraordinary efforts of Ford and his unit, underscoring their pivotal role in documenting pivotal moments of World War II.