Operation Petticoat
| 1959Directed by: Blake Edwards
Main Plot
Operation Petticoat is a comedic film set during World War II, focusing on a submarine crew that finds itself in a series of unexpected and humorous situations. After a damaged submarine, the USS Sea Tiger, is repaired and made seaworthy again, the crew discovers that they have to accommodate a group of female nurses who are stranded after a bombing raid. The presence of the nurses complicates the crew's military operations and leads to a series of misadventures as they attempt to navigate both the challenges of war and the dynamics of having women on board. The film blends elements of comedy and romance as the crew and nurses form bonds amidst the chaos of wartime, leading to a lighthearted exploration of gender roles and camaraderie in the face of adversity.
Characters
- Cary Grant plays Lieutenant Commander Matt Sherman, the captain of a submarine who must manage a chaotic crew and unexpected female passengers during wartime repairs and evasions.
- Tony Curtis played Lt. JG Nicholas Holden, a supply officer who becomes instrumental in procuring supplies for a submarine during wartime, adding comedic flair to the mission.
- Joan O'Brien plays Lieutenant Dolores Crandall, a Navy nurse who adds romantic intrigue and comedic tension aboard a submarine during a wartime refurbishing mission.
Ending Explained
In the ending of Operation Petticoat, the crew of the submarine USS Sea Tiger, which has been humorously and chaotically transformed by the presence of female nurses, faces a pivotal moment as they attempt to complete their mission amidst World War II. After a series of comedic misadventures and challenges, the crew successfully manages to evade enemy forces and repair their submarine. The climax occurs when they must navigate a dangerous situation involving Japanese ships, showcasing the teamwork and resourcefulness that has developed among the diverse crew. As the Sea Tiger manages to escape, the camaraderie and bonds formed between the male crew members and the female nurses come to the forefront. The film concludes with the crew returning to base, where they are met with a mix of disbelief and admiration for their unconventional journey. The resolution of the main conflict lies in the crew's ability to overcome obstacles and stereotypes, demonstrating that unity and collaboration can triumph in the face of adversity. The ending reinforces the film's themes of gender roles and teamwork, leaving the audience with a sense of lighthearted victory and a reminder of the absurdities of war.