If Tomorrow Comes Poster

If Tomorrow Comes 1971

★ 8.01 votes73 min📅 1971-12-07

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of California in 1941, *If Tomorrow Comes (1971)* weaves a poignant tale of young love defying the rigid prejudices of its time.

Director: George McCowan

Cast

Patty Duke
Patty Duke
Eileen Phillips
Frank Michael Liu
Frank Michael Liu
David Tayanaka
Anne Baxter
Anne Baxter
Miss Cramer
James Whitmore
James Whitmore
Frank Phillips
Pat Hingle
Pat Hingle
Sheriff
Mako
Mako
Tadashi
John McLiam
John McLiam
Father Miller
Beulah Quo
Beulah Quo
Midori
Michael McGreevey
Michael McGreevey
Harlan Phillips
Kay Stewart
Kay Stewart
Helen Phillips

Frequently Asked Questions

What is If Tomorrow Comes (1971) about?

The film tells the story of a young couple in California who marry in secret on December 7, 1941, just before the attack on Pearl Harbor upends their lives. Their tender romance is tested by wartime prejudices and the sudden eruption of global conflict, forcing them to confront the fragility of their newfound happiness.

Who directed If Tomorrow Comes?

George McCowan directed *If Tomorrow Comes*. Known for his work in television, McCowan crafts a sensitive and atmospheric narrative that balances personal drama with historical weight.

Who stars in If Tomorrow Comes?

This poignant TV movie features Patty Duke and Frank Michael Liu as the young lovers, with Anne Baxter, James Whitmore, and Pat Hingle rounding out the ensemble cast.

Is If Tomorrow Comes (1971) worth watching?

While not widely rated, *If Tomorrow Comes* offers a compelling blend of romance and historical drama, anchored by strong performances. Its exploration of wartime prejudices and the human cost of war makes it a thought-provoking watch, especially for fans of period pieces with emotional depth.

How long is If Tomorrow Comes?

The runtime of *If Tomorrow Comes (1971)* is 73 minutes.

About If Tomorrow Comes (1971) — A 1941 romance shattered by Pearl Harbor's shadow

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of California in 1941, *If Tomorrow Comes (1971)* weaves a poignant tale of young love defying the rigid prejudices of its time. Directed by George McCowan, this dramatic TV movie follows the story of a young white woman and her Japanese-American fiancé, whose secret wedding ceremony on December 7th is abruptly interrupted by the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. Their tender romance collides with the harsh realities of wartime bigotry, creating a moving exploration of loyalty, fear, and the fragile nature of hope in the face of history's darkest moments.

At its heart, this is a story about the courage to love unconditionally when the world seems determined to tear people apart. With standout performances from Patty Duke and Frank Michael Liu as the star-crossed couple, and Anne Baxter lending gravitas to the narrative, *If Tomorrow Comes* balances intimate human drama with the sweeping tension of a nation on the brink of war. The film's emotional resonance lingers long after the final scene, leaving viewers to ponder the cost of prejudice and the enduring power of devotion.

Starring a cast that blends rising talent with seasoned actors, this 73-minute drama is as much a historical snapshot as it is a heartfelt romance, offering a glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of American life during World War II.