Operation Petticoat Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A submarine crew accidentally paints their vessel pink, picks up some stranded nurses, and then tries to convince everyone they’re still a serious fighting force.

🍿 Operation Petticoat: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Sinking of the Sea Tiger

In December 1941, shortly after its commissioning, the USS Sea Tiger, commanded by Lt. Cmdr. Matt T. Sherman (Cary Grant), is docked in the Philippines. A surprise Japanese air raid heavily damages the submarine, leaving it partially submerged in the harbor. Sherman is determined to get the Sea Tiger back into service despite the extensive damage.

Enter Lt. JG Nicholas Holden

Amidst the chaos, Lt. JG Nicholas Holden (Tony Curtis), a resourceful but unconventional officer, is assigned to the Sea Tiger. Holden, more adept at acquiring supplies through unorthodox means than traditional naval duties, proves invaluable in the effort to repair the submarine. His ‘scrounging’ skills become essential for obtaining the necessary parts and equipment.

The Pink Submarine

During the repairs, a shortage of standard hull paint forces the crew to mix red and white primer, resulting in the Sea Tiger being painted pink. This bizarre turn of events adds a layer of absurdity to their already challenging situation. The pink color becomes a running gag throughout the rest of the film and a symbol of the unusual circumstances.

Stranded Nurses Aboard

While en route to Darwin, Australia, for further repairs, the Sea Tiger comes across a group of stranded Army nurses on an island. Despite the cramped conditions and the submarine’s already precarious state, Sherman agrees to take the nurses aboard, leading to a series of comedic situations as the crew navigates the challenges of having women in the close quarters of a submarine. The presence of the nurses adds romantic tension and further complicates the mission.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Lt. Cmdr. Matt T. Sherman (Cary Grant): The steadfast and initially exasperated captain of the USS Sea Tiger submarine trying to keep it afloat during World War II.
• Lt. JG Nicholas Holden (Tony Curtis): A resourceful but unconventional con-man and supply officer whose antics both help and hinder the submarine’s journey.
• Lt. Dolores Crandall RN (Joan O’Brien): A well-endowed, accident-prone nurse aboard the submarine, who, despite her mishaps, saves the boat and all aboard.
• Lt. Barbara Duran RN (Dina Merrill): An elegant nurse on the submarine who develops a romantic interest in Lt. JG Nicholas Holden.
• Chief Molumphry (Gene Evans): The reliable and experienced Chief of the Boat who offers a realistic and grounded perspective to the submarine’s unusual situations.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Lt. Cmdr. Matt T. Sherman: “You see, when a girl is under 21, she’s protected by law. When she’s over 65, she’s protected by nature. Anywhere in between, she’s fair game! Look out!” – Said by Sherman, capturing the film’s somewhat dated, lighthearted (and now controversial) attitude towards women.
• Lt. JG Nicholas Holden: “In confusion, there is profit.” – Holden’s mantra, reflecting his opportunistic and resourceful approach to acquiring supplies.
• Chief Molumphry: “We just sank a truck!” – Uttered in disbelief after an accidental torpedo strike, highlighting the absurdity of some situations.
• Lt. Cmdr. Matt T. Sherman: “What in the name of the United States Navy is going on here?” – Captain Sherman often questions the chaotic situations caused by Lieutenant Holden and the nurses, a recurring comedic element.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $5 million
• Domestic Gross: $23.3 million
• Worldwide Gross: $23.3 million

💥 Operation Petticoat Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved Operation Petticoat! Cary Grant and Tony Curtis are a fantastic duo. The pink submarine is iconic, and I found myself laughing out loud throughout the entire film. The way the nurses integrated into the submarine crew was hilarious, and the film’s lighthearted approach to wartime events was refreshing. The scene where they’re trying to hide the pig from the MPs had me in tears. Definitely going to watch this again!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Cary Grant and Tony Curtis”
  • “Viewers who enjoy classic comedies”
  • “Those interested in light-hearted war movies”
  • “Families looking for clean and entertaining films”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild innuendo”
  • “Some dated gender stereotypes”
  • “Brief depictions of wartime conflict”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “A delightful comedy with Cary Grant at his charming best. The film balances wit and wartime tension effectively. Tony Curtis delivers a memorable performance. A must-see for fans of classic comedies.
• Variety: “Operation Petticoat is a breezy and hilarious romp that showcases Blake Edwards’ comedic genius. The chemistry between Grant and Curtis is infectious, and the film offers plenty of laughs.
• N/A: “Be warned that this film has great comic dialogue delivered with fine timing by good actors, but if you are prissy about political correctness and hung up on “gender issues”, it might discomfort you. But that’s your problem, not the film’s. Most viewers can just come aboard and enjoy the voyage, appreciating the comic situations and energetic pace. Grant and Curtis are in top form, playing their contrasting characters with skill.

Audience Reactions

The comedic timing of Cary Grant and Tony Curtis.: The lighthearted humor and charming performances.

The absurdity of the pink submarine in a serious wartime scenario.: The film’s ability to balance comedy with wartime themes.

Overall Consensus: A classic wartime comedy with a blend of humor, charm, and memorable performances from Cary Grant and Tony Curtis.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Jeff Chandler was originally offered the role that went to Cary Grant, but turned it down to work on another film.”
• “The filmmakers drew inspiration from real-life incidents involving American submarines during World War II, adding a layer of authenticity to the comedic situations.”
• “The need to paint the submarine pink due to a shortage of red and white paint was based on actual events.”
• “Tony Curtis idolized Cary Grant and considered working with him a dream come true.”

🖥️ How to Watch Operation Petticoat?

Operation Petticoat is widely available for streaming and purchase. You can find it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video for purchase or rental. It’s also often available on Apple TV, Vudu, and Google Play Movies. Check your local listings for cable on-demand options as well. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray can be purchased from major retailers.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Operation Petticoat, you might like these similar films:

• Mr. Roberts (1955): Another classic Navy-based comedy-drama exploring the tensions and humor of life aboard a ship during wartime.
• Down Periscope (1996): A more modern naval comedy with a similar premise of a misfit crew and unconventional submarine operations.
• Some Like It Hot (1959): Also starring Tony Curtis from the same year. Offers similar comedic charm and high jinks, albeit in a different setting.
• Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942): Classic musical with a similar blend of Americana, patriotism, and lighthearted entertainment during wartime.

🛒 Operation Petticoat Related Products

• Operation Petticoat [Blu-ray]: Experience Operation Petticoat in stunning high definition with this Blu-ray edition. Relive the classic comedy with enhanced visuals and audio. A must-have for collectors!
• Cary Grant: A Celebration of Style: Explore Cary Grant’s iconic style with this collector’s book. Filled with photos and insights, discover the man behind the timeless elegance.
• Pink Submarine Model Kit: Build your own pink submarine with this detailed model kit. A fun and engaging project for fans of the movie and model enthusiasts.
• Vintage Style Navy T-shirt: Show off your movie love with this comfortable and vintage style Operation Petticoat themed navy t-shirt. Features the movie title and a pink submarine illustration.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “You Can’t Win” – performed by George Dunn

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

How a Real WWII Incident Inspired a Scene in Operation Petticoat – #shorts #short

Did you know that a scene from ‘Operation Petticoat’ was actually based on a real event? This short video reveals the fascinating true story, and honestly, it makes the movie even better!

She turned down “OPERATION PETTICOAT” because of JOKES ABOUT HER ANATOMY but later was a PINUP!

Can you imagine ‘Operation Petticoat’ with a different actress? This video dives into the story of a famous actress who almost starred in the movie but turned it down. The reason why is actually pretty interesting, you should give it a watch!

7 deceased Operation Petticoat actors (part 1)

Let’s take a moment to remember the talented actors who brought ‘Operation Petticoat’ to life. This short tribute honors the deceased cast members and their contributions, a heartfelt reminder of their lasting impact.

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