Based on the true story of Marty Maher, a humble Irish immigrant who rose through the ranks to become one of West Point’s most beloved instructors, The Long Gray Line is a rousing tribute to a remarkable man and his way of life. Director John Ford and star Tyrone Power, themselves the sons of Irish immigrants, bring an extra dimension of fidelity and fervor to this inspiring biography. Newly arrived in America, Maher’s first job was as a waiter at West Point. Clumsy and boisterous, he quickly broke so much of the military academy’s china that he was forced to join the Army to repay his debts. But once in, the rough and ready Dubliner served his adopted nation with rare dedication, establishing himself as an inspirational coach at West Point. Spanning 50 years and two World Wars, the film shows Maher at his best, molding and motivating the young men who would become America’s heroes and Presidents. Filmed on location with a stellar supporting cast (including Ford favorites Maureen O’Hara, Ward Bond, and Harry Carey, Jr.), The Long Gray Line is a stirring reminder of Marty Maher’s proud place in history.
R**K
A Classic Movie
Younger generations would probably see this movie as being "Hokies" or old-fashioned, or too sentimental, but it is one of my favorites. Tyrone Power puts in a great acting performance portraying Marty Maher, a West Point worker and instructor from his twenties to his sixties. The movie takes place at West Point from the early 1900s to thec1950s. Eisenhower, Patton, and other members of "the class the stars shined on" (1915) are seen as cadets or staff. The impact of the two world wars are shown in this film. If you want a sentimental, historical, enjoyable night at the movies, this should be your film.
R**S
West Point as It Was and Should Be - Excellent Petformance by Tyrone Power
My father took me to this movie when I was young & it became my inspiration to go to West Point, in addition to my uncle who graduated during WW II, and who flew combat missions for 3 years into Germany. Brilliant performance by Tyrone Power. My father always cried when we watched this movie, which is one of few times I saw him cry. This realistic and touching portrayal of West Point had a major impact on my life.
B**S
OLDIE BUT GOODIE
This is one of the very best opportunities to see a great story line, no cuss words, and depicts the beauty of West Point. I knew it from the movie dates, however, will see it again in a few months during an area visit.I'm SURE IS ALSO SOLD LOTS OF Kleenex!
S**T
Good Movie, But Ireland Didn't Fight
Darn good movie that touches the heart but I suspect this movie was made, in part, to distract from the reality that Ireland didn't fight in WWII, and moreover Ireland's leader sent official condolences when Hitler killed himself.
S**.
Beautiful and emotional American movie.
One of the best movies I’ve ever seen. It’s easy to see why this is a classic. A beautiful story about love, hard work, and an American institution.
B**N
Too sappy and simple-minded for my taste
I watched 30-45 minutes of "The Long Gray Line," but stopped because the presentation of it seems to be directed at a sappy sentimental and simpleton viewer of it. The movie has a manipulating intent.
P**A
One man's view of West Point over the ages
This is one of my favorite movies. It is a real story of an Irish immigrant who arrived at West Point and stayed for 50 years. As a member of West Point's staff, he became close to many cadets who then went on to serve in the U.S. Army. A real tear jerker for me, and well loved as I watch it over and over again.
O**D
liked it and now have a disk of it
Years ago I was dragged to a drive in theater and saw this. At the time I was surprised/disappointed that it was a biography, and a biography of a military person who was at West Point for his entire enlistment. I later, however, bought a VCR of it, liked it and now have a disk of it. This time I was not disappointed and again have enjoyed it.
S**N
Strange story. Very high technical values.
So I watched this this afternoon. Tyrone Power had an amazing reputation as a 'film star' when I started going to the pictures as a little girl. I watched 'the razors edge' a little while ago and was impressed at what an accomplished dramatic actor he was as well as a swashbuckler. This dvd was very cheap as it will have been paid for a long time ago - and a good pedigree - John Ford directing no less. Well it was an extravagant film. Huge wide shots of young men marching to lovely music. Extras must have been cheap and the budget very very big. The uniforms elegant. But the story. I had no idea what the story was going to be until the film started. I am sure Tyrone Power played Marty very well. But it really was a family story set in the invironment of the military college. I have never been part of a family and have absolutely no idea what they are about. So I am afraid it went down like a lead balloon. People who can relate to families will and probably do enjoy family stories. This one included.
G**R
The Long Gray Line DVD
Excellent film, it stars Tyrone Power & Maureen O`Hara. and is based on a true story about Marty Maher, an Irish immigrant fresh off the boat who takes a menial job as a servant at the elite West Point Academy America`s most famous military academy. Howewver West Point has a way of recognising the best in a man and Maher finds himself joining the army and becoming one of the best loved instructors ever to serve at the Academy. It is actually filmed on the grounds of the West Point Academy. I can thoroughly recommend this film to the adults
S**J
Great film !
I really enjoyed this film, it had a very good story to it.And great acting too.
G**H
Great Story
Bought this dvd for my wife, I think I know the script, it’s been viewed so many times. My wife loves Tyrone Power
M**E
Excellent
Excellent
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