During WWII, the United States set up army bases in Great Britain as part of the war effort. Against their proper sensibilities, many of the Brits don't much like the brash Yanks, especially when it comes to the G.I.s making advances on the lonely British girls. One relationship that develops is between married John, an Army Captain, and the aristocratic Helen, whose naval husband is away at war. Helen loves her husband, but Helen and John are looking for some comfort during the difficult times.
Acting
Redgrave's brittle dignity against Gere's hungry warmth.
Direction
Schlesinger's patient observation of repressed desire.
Production
Northern England locations soaked in period authenticity.
Director
John Schlesinger
Richard Gere
Matt Dyson
Lisa Eichhorn
Jean Moreton
Vanessa Redgrave
Helen
William Devane
John
Chick Vennera
Danny Ruffelo
Wendy Morgan
Mollie
Rachel Roberts
Mrs. Clarrie Moreton
Tony Melody
Mr. Jim Moreton
Derek Thompson
Ken
Arlen Dean Snyder
Henry
Joan Hickson
Mrs. Moody
Annie Ross
Red Cross lady
Tom Nolan
Tom
John Ratzenberger
Cpl Cook
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Schlesinger fought the studio to keep the 138-minute runtime; they wanted a tighter 110-minute cut.
The film captures the real 'friendly invasion' friction: 3 million GIs stationed in Britain before D-Day, and the resentment over their higher pay and confidence with local women.
GB
US
