Overview

Up Periscope is a 1959 American World War II romantic drama film directed by Gordon Douglas and adapted from a novel by Robb White. The story centers on submarine service during the Pacific War and combines elements of naval action, covert reconnaissance and a personal romantic subplot. The picture features James Garner in the lead and an ensemble cast that includes Harry Landers, Edmond O'Brien and Warren Oates. It was distributed by Warner Bros.

Principal cast and contributors

The movie stars James Garner, supported by Harry Landers, Edmond O'Brien, Warren Oates, Andra Martin, Alan Hale Jr., and a notable appearance by former athlete Frank Gifford. Director Gordon Douglas was an experienced studio director, and the screenplay draws on Robb White's maritime novel as its source material. The film was handled and released by Warner Bros.

Characteristics and themes

Up Periscope blends wartime action with a personal, sometimes romantic, storyline. Typical motifs include the tension of clandestine naval missions, the technical and human challenges of submarine duty, and the interplay between duty and personal relationships. Production values of the era emphasize shipboard interiors, periscope shots and the close-quarters drama of submarine life rather than large-scale battle set pieces.

Historical context and development

The film belongs to a wave of 1950s Hollywood pictures that revisited World War II with a mix of adventure and sentiment. Adapting a Robb White novel linked the project to a tradition of maritime adventure literature; White was known for stories focused on sea craft and survival. Studio-era filmmaking practices shaped the production, from casting charismatic leads to balancing action sequences with accessible romantic beats.

Reception and legacy

While not typically ranked among the most influential war films, Up Periscope is remembered for its star performance and for its place within postwar American cinema that treated naval warfare as a setting for both suspense and personal drama. The cast includes performers who would go on to diverse careers, and the movie remains of interest to fans of submarine-themed films and midcentury Hollywood genre work.

Notable facts

  • The film is an adaptation of a Robb White novel and reflects his interest in nautical adventure.
  • James Garner, already known to television audiences, carried the lead role into his larger screen career.
  • Several supporting actors later became well-known character performers.

For further reading on the novel, cast biographies, or studio release notes, consult dedicated film reference sources and archival materials from the era. Additional production details can be located through studio records and film history collections.