Great picture!!!
One of the all time greats... when America was ONE NATION UNDER GOD... no more.
LLS
Perhaps my # 1. Up there with Casa Blanca & Paths of Glory.
The love story between York and his gal always takes me back to a young gal I loved once.
Alvin C. York had been approached by producer Jesse Lasky several times, beginning in 1919, to allow a movie to be made of his life, but had refused, believing that “This uniform ain’t for sale.” Lasky convinced York that, with war threatening in Europe, it was his patriotic duty to allow the film to proceed.
York finally agreed - but only on three conditions. First, York’s share of the profits would be contributed to a Bible School York wanted constructed. Second, no cigarette smoking actress could be chosen to play his wife. Third, that only Gary Cooper, could recreate his life on screen.
Cooper at first turned down the role, but when York himself contacted the star with a personal plea, Cooper agreed to do the picture.
Joan Leslie was 16 when she made this film, the same age as the real Gracie. Alvin C. York had made it clear that he didn’t want any actress with any sort of notoriety connected with her portraying his wife. He specifically said, “No Ooomph Girls!”, a clear reference to Warner Bros. contract player Ann Sheridan.
Incredibly, Jane Russell was considered, but the wholesome Leslie was ultimately chosen.
I’m blessed to know Sgt. York’s daughter. She is absolutely precious. His legacy lives on.