Destination Tokyo Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A submarine crew throws a Christmas party then accidentally stumbles into Tokyo Bay to help some bomber dudes.

🍿 Destination Tokyo: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Setting Sail on a Secret Mission

The film opens on Christmas Eve in 1941, shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The U.S. submarine USS Copperfin departs from San Francisco under sealed orders. Captain Cassidy, played by Cary Grant, and his crew are unaware of their destination or mission. Tension and anticipation fill the air as they set out into the Pacific, leaving behind the familiar shores of America.

Unveiling the Objective: Tokyo Bay

Twenty-four hours into their voyage, Captain Cassidy opens his secret orders, revealing their daunting mission: to infiltrate Tokyo Bay. Their task is to gather crucial intelligence to support the upcoming Doolittle Raid on Tokyo. This intelligence includes weather information, navigational data, and details on Japanese defenses. The crew understands the immense risk involved but steels themselves for the challenge.

Infiltration and Espionage

The Copperfin navigates treacherous waters, evading Japanese patrols and naval vessels. They rendezvous with a seaplane to pick up Lieutenant Raymond, an expert in Japanese language and culture. Raymond leads a small landing party ashore to gather the needed intel, while the submarine waits anxiously. The mission is fraught with danger, and any slip-up could compromise the entire operation and the Doolittle Raid itself.

Appendicitis Crisis in Enemy Waters

Amidst the tension of their mission, a medical emergency arises. A crew member, Tommy Adams, suffers a ruptured appendix. With no qualified surgeon on board, the ship’s pharmacist’s mate, ‘Pills’, must perform an emergency appendectomy. The crew bands together to assist ‘Pills’ as he operates under incredibly stressful conditions, while the submarine remains hidden in enemy territory.

Escape and Retaliation

Having successfully obtained the necessary information, the Copperfin attempts to escape Tokyo Bay undetected. Their presence is discovered, and they are forced to engage in a fierce battle with Japanese forces. They torpedo a Japanese aircraft carrier, contributing to the success of the Doolittle Raid. The submarine endures a relentless barrage of depth charges but manages to destroy a pursuing Japanese destroyer before finally escaping to safety.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Capt. Cassidy (Cary Grant): The determined Captain of the U.S.S. Copperfin, leading a secret mission into Tokyo Bay.
• Wolf (John Garfield): A charismatic and boastful sailor aboard the Copperfin, known for his stories about women.
• ‘Cookie’ Wainwright (Alan Hale): The good-natured cook on the Copperfin, providing comic relief and a sense of camaraderie.
• Reserve Officer Raymond (John Ridgely): The Japanese-speaking reserve officer essential for gathering intelligence in Tokyo Bay.
• Tin Can (Dane Clark): A initially cynical crew member who undergoes a spiritual transformation during the mission.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Capt. Cassidy: “There was a democratic movement in Japan after the last war. What happened?” – Captain Cassidy discusses the political climate in Japan, highlighting the suppression of democracy.
• Reserve Officer Raymond: “The leaders were assassinated.” – Reserve Officer Raymond explains how democratic leaders in Japan were eliminated.
• Capt. Cassidy: “They have no voice now. Starvation is the big stick, isn’t it, Raymond?” – Captain Cassidy remarks on the lack of freedom and the economic hardships faced by the Japanese people.
• Reserve Officer Raymond: “That’s right, sir. The big wage is seven dollars a week. They have no unions, no free press… nothing.” – Reserve Officer Raymond describes the oppressive conditions and lack of basic rights in Japan.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 Destination Tokyo Reviews

Personal Review

I was captivated by Destination Tokyo! The film really puts you in the cramped submarine with the crew. I felt the tension during the depth charge scenes. The characters felt real, especially John Garfield’s ‘Wolf.’ It’s a thrilling and emotional ride. I jumped when the torpedo hit the carrier!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic war films”
  • “Those interested in naval history”
  • “Cary Grant enthusiasts”
  • “Viewers seeking a glimpse into wartime propaganda”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “War violence”
  • “Anti-Japanese sentiment (common for films of this era)”
  • “Brief surgical scene”
  • “Some mature themes”

Professional Reviews

• CBR: “Destination Tokyo delivers a tense and realistic depiction of submarine warfare, showcasing the bravery and camaraderie of the crew under immense pressure. Its historical context enhances the film’s impact, making it a compelling watch for fans of war movies.
• Showbiz Junkies: “While made during wartime, Destination Tokyo is more than just propaganda. It provides a glimpse into the lives and challenges faced by submariners, blending action with character development to create an engaging cinematic experience.

Audience Reactions

Cary Grant’s performance was stellar, bringing both authority and humanity to his role as the captain.: Viewers appreciated the film’s attention to detail and its respectful portrayal of the U.S. Navy during World War II.

The underwater shots, though dated, were still considered impressive for their time.: Many viewers felt the film captured the spirit of the era and the sacrifices made by American soldiers.

Overall Consensus: Destination Tokyo is a well-regarded war film praised for its depiction of submarine warfare and strong performances, though some find its wartime propaganda aspects dated.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The U.S. Navy found the film so accurate in its depiction of submarine operations that it was used as a training film during World War II.”
• “Tony Curtis said he based his performance in ‘Some Like It Hot’ on Cary Grant’s performance in this film, sparking Curtis’ desire to work with Grant on a submarine movie, which he later did in ‘Operation Petticoat’.”

🖥️ How to Watch Destination Tokyo?

Currently, ‘Destination Tokyo’ is available for purchase on platforms like Amazon. Unfortunately, at the time of writing, there are no streaming services offering the movie as part of their subscription. Check these platforms for rental or purchase options to enjoy this classic war film.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Destination Tokyo, you might like these similar films:

• Run Silent, Run Deep (1958): Another classic submarine warfare film set during World War II, focusing on the tense cat-and-mouse game between submarines and enemy vessels.
• Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo (1944): Chronicles the Doolittle Raid, the same event ‘Destination Tokyo’ supports, offering a broader perspective on the mission.
• Operation Petticoat (1959): Features Cary Grant in a lighter, comedic submarine role, offering a contrast to the serious tone of ‘Destination Tokyo’.
• U-571 (2000): A modern submarine thriller with a focus on intense underwater action and a daring mission behind enemy lines.

🛒 Destination Tokyo Related Products

• Destination Tokyo (Warner Archive Collection) [Blu-ray]: High-quality Blu-ray edition featuring restored picture and sound, for collectors and movie buffs who want the best possible viewing experience.
• Silent Victory: The U.S. Submarine War Against Japan: Delve deeper into the real-life events and strategies behind submarine warfare in the Pacific. Provides historical context and insights to enhance your appreciation of the movie.
• World War II US Navy Submarine T-Shirt: Show your appreciation for naval history with a stylish t-shirt featuring a vintage submarine design. Comfortable and durable, perfect for casual wear.
• Naval Warfare Board Game: Engage in strategic naval battles, commanding submarines and surface ships. This game offers a fun and interactive way to experience the challenges of World War II naval warfare.

🎧 Soundtrack

Destination Tokyo features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “O Little Town of Bethlehem” – performed by Lewis H. Redner, Phillips Brooks

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Destination Tokyo | Sinking A Japanese Aircraft Carrier | Warner Classics

Want a quick, intense taste of ‘Destination Tokyo’? This scene shows the submarine crew taking down a Japanese aircraft carrier, and it’s honestly pretty thrilling to watch!

✨ Rate