Tell It To The Marines

Famous Chaney vehicle with beautiful Robert Israel music.
Although Warner Home Video has decided to release its old titles in DVD-R format, at least we have the chance to have access to such interesting movies as Tell It to the Marines. This one is presented in a sensational copy with a beautiful orchestral score composed by Robert Israel. Filmed most of the movie on location, it has interest as documentary also, although the main attraction obviously, is to see Lon Chaney in a role that did not require any physical disguise, under George Hill's 'mise en scene', in the antipodes of Tod Browning's direction, responsable of Chaney's most famous movies. The structure of Tell It to the Marines is an atractive mix with the typical William Haines' vehicle elements, Lon Chaney's composition of a pathetical role, and action scenes where George Hill was an accomplished artisan. Eleanor Boardman provides the romantic interest, therefore you have the chance to see three big stars of the early MGM in a very entertaining movie. Enjoy it!

Groundbreaking Gem!!!!!!!
All the great films from Jack Webb's "The D.I." to Kubrick's "Full Metal Jacket" owe a bow to this masterpiece. The first film to depict boot camp life in the U.S.M.C.
Many people won't even give silent films a chance. Heck, even a lot of today's teenagers won't even give a sound Black/White film a look. However, once you start watching this epic you cannot turn if off.
Chaney is brilliant as the D.I. a no nonsense character with a heart of gold (when he chooses to show it) and William Haynes is equally good as the recruit who Chaney attempts to mold into a fighting man. In the middle of the mix is the love interest of both, portrayed by Eleanor Boardman.
The battle scenes are phenomenal considering this was 1926.
And Chaney's D.I. "routine" 'Who wants to drive the General's car?' is a hoot!!!
The film is in pretty decent shape for its age with a decent transfer.
Warning: It is available only on DVD-R format, and may not play on some older...

Chaney's favorite film, and easy to see why
No matter how great Lon Chaney was as "The Hunchback Of Notre Dame" and "The Phantom Of The Opera", he in my opinion was born to play a Marine in this 1926 film. He is so believable and fits so well in the part, that is a natural for him. No makeup required here, and it is proof positive that he could play many other roles without all the makeup. You can see in this film how much he enjoyed playing in his role of the tough sergent with a heart. And for his role, he was the first actor granted to be an honorary member of The United States Marine Corps. And Chaney was highly honored indeed. William Haines is the man he takes under his wing, and Eleanor Boardman plays the nurse that the two of them are both in love with. The transfer here on this DVD-R is very good. Of course some wear and scratches remain, but overall the quality is very good. Nice stereo track by Robert Israel. Unfortunately no extras. But this is a must film for a Lon Chaney collection. I highly recommend this film.

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