1941

1941

Year: 1979

Runtime: 118 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Spielberg

Budget: $35M

ActionComedyWar

Following the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Los Angeles is thrown into a state of panic and confusion. A ragtag group of soldiers and civilians find themselves caught up in a chaotic series of events as rumors of an imminent Japanese invasion spread. Amidst the escalating hysteria and elaborate special effects, they must navigate a comical and over-the-top situation, ultimately preparing to defend Hollywood's iconic coastline.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – 1941 (1979)

Explore the full timeline and setting of 1941 (1979). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

December 1941

Set shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 1941 marks a time of heightened anxiety and paranoia in the United States. The population is on edge, fearing further attacks and entangled in a war that would significantly alter the country's landscape. This period is characterized by a mix of fear, patriotism, and comedic chaos as civilians navigate the impact of the war on their everyday lives.

Location

Los Angeles, California, Hollywood, Death Valley

The movie takes place primarily in Los Angeles, a bustling city known for its entertainment industry, including Hollywood, where dreams are made and stars are born. Death Valley serves as a contrasting desolate backdrop to the chaos unfolding in the city, showcasing the stark differences between urban life and the ruggedness of the California desert. The storyline unfolds in various locations that highlight the cultural mix and societal mood during World War II, merging humor and tension.

🏖️ Beach 🎠 Amusement Park 🌆 City

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

Main Characters – 1941 (1979)

Meet the key characters of 1941 (1979), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Wally Stephens (Bobby Di Cicco)

Wally is a charming yet misguided young man whose attempts at winning his ex-girlfriend's affection often lead to comedic trouble. His past of juvenile delinquency haunts him, but he's determined to make better choices, even while navigating the challenges of wartime. Wally's resilience and impulsive nature drive much of the plot's humor and tension.

😄 Goofiness 💔 Unrequited Love

Sgt. Frank Tree (Dan Aykroyd)

Sgt. Tree is depicted as a responsible but somewhat hapless tank crew chief trying to maintain order among his crew during amidst the chaos in Los Angeles. His character embodies a blend of military discipline and comedic ineptitude, showcasing the challenges faced by servicemen in trying to keep peace during a tumultuous time.

🎖️ Military 😂 Humor

Captain Wild Bill Kelso (John Belushi)

Captain Wild Bill is a manic, larger-than-life character driven by his desire for adventure and glory. His reckless nature leads to outlandish situations, blending absurdity with the heroics typically associated with war stories. His antics create a comic relief amidst the tension of the narrative, making him a memorable and unconventional hero.

🤣 Zany ✈️ Aviation

Captain Loomis Birkhead (Tim Matheson)

Captain Birkhead is portrayed as a somewhat smarmy officer whose advances toward his secretary are met with resistance. His character's misguided focus on personal desires, contrasted with the seriousness of the war, adds humor but also tension to the film. Despite his shortcomings, he finds himself in increasingly ridiculous situations.

⚡ Romance 🥴 Misguided

Betty Douglas (Dianne Kay)

Betty is a strong and determined young woman, striving to make her way in a society in turmoil due to the war. Her aspirations to perform at the USO show speak to her character’s resilience and ambition. Throughout the film, she navigates complex relationships and demonstrates the struggles women faced during that era.

💃 Dance 💔 Love Interest

Donna Stratten (Nancy Allen)

Donna is the capable and assertive secretary to Major General Stilwell, capturing the attention of various men with her strong-willed demeanor. Her interactions, particularly with Birkhead, showcase her independence, making her a key player in the comedic elements of the plot. She represents the emerging role of women during wartime.

👩‍💼 Independence 💔 Romance

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

Major Themes – 1941 (1979)

Explore the central themes of 1941 (1979), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Chaos

The movie captures the absurdity and chaos that can ensue during times of war, emphasizing both the comedic and tragic elements of the civilian experience. Personal conflicts, misunderstandings, and a general sense of disorder reflect how society copes with fear and uncertainty. This theme is reinforced by the clashing of characters from various backgrounds and their interactions amid escalating tensions.

❤️ Love and Relationships

Romantic entanglements and the pursuit of love serve as a backdrop for several characters, illustrating that even in the midst of war, personal desires and connections persist. The dynamics between Wally, Betty, and other characters show how love can flourish despite social and familial barriers. This theme provides a humanizing element, juxtaposing romantic pursuits against the menacing backdrop of global conflict.

⚔️ Honor

Honor and dignity play a significant role, particularly with the Japanese submarine's mission and its commander, Mitamura. Their self-perception of nobility contrasts sharply with the chaotic actions of the American characters. This theme highlights the complexities of war, where concepts of honor can differ greatly among opposing sides, raising questions about morality and respect during conflict.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

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Unlock the Full Story of 1941

Don't stop at just watching — explore 1941 in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what 1941 is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

1941 Summary

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1941 Summary

1941 Timeline

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1941 Timeline

1941 Spoiler-Free Summary

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1941 Spoiler-Free Summary

More About 1941

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about 1941: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About 1941

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