1941 (1979)

Second viewing; first viewed in 1980.

In 1941, after the Japanese attack in Hawaii, Californians are somewhat worried that they are the next target. A Japanese submarine is advancing towards the West Coast hoping to strike something "significant". The U.S. military forces mobilize against this as well as some misperceived threats. Adding to the confusion are several concurrent incidents: one officer tries to score with a secretary who will only get aroused while airborne; a dance contest sets the stage for some sexual rivalry between two young men; a tank is set at a coastal residence's front yard; a lone aviator sets about in a maniacal shooting spree; two shooters are placed on a ferris wheel.

This is a military satire that looks like it was written by a bunch of overexcited 15-year-olds, and yet is done with such conviction that it is hard to deny it some merit. Films needn't be elegant in concept, comedies needn't be funny; it is better when they are, but the important thing is that they have some distinctness about them. I couldn't laugh much with 1941; but I admit it has some degree of originality and a consistent style. That, and the fact that it wasn't morally offensive, was enough for me.

Rating: 50 (down from 55)