Murphy's War Poster

Murphy's War 1971

★ 6.189 votes107 min📅 1971-01-13

"World War Two was just ending. World War Murphy is about to begin."

Set against the fading embers of World War II, *Murphy's War* (1971) follows a lone survivor's descent into vengeance against the odds.

Director: Peter Yates

Cast

Peter O'Toole
Peter O'Toole
Murphy
Siân Phillips
Siân Phillips
Hayden
Philippe Noiret
Philippe Noiret
Brezan
Horst Janson
Horst Janson
Lauchs
John Hallam
John Hallam
Ellis
Ingo Mogendorf
Ingo Mogendorf
Voght
John Clifford
German Submarine Crewman (uncredited)
Harry Fielder
German Submarine Crewman (uncredited)
George Roubicek
George Roubicek
German Submarine Crewman (uncredited)
Bob Simmons
Bob Simmons
German Submarine Crewman (uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Murphy's War (1971) about?

Murphy's War tells the story of a lone survivor of a WWII massacre who, after being rescued, vows to hunt down the German U-Boat responsible for his crew's fate. Stranded at a remote mission station, he embarks on a dangerous mission of revenge with the help of an unlikely ally, testing the limits of courage and morality.

Who directed Murphy's War?

Peter Yates directed Murphy's War. Known for his versatile filmmaking, Yates brought a gritty realism to this intense WWII drama.

Who stars in Murphy's War?

The film features Peter O'Toole as the vengeful survivor, alongside Siân Phillips, Philippe Noiret, Horst Janson, and John Hallam in pivotal roles.

Is Murphy's War (1971) worth watching?

While not rated on IMDb, Murphy's War offers a gripping narrative of vengeance and survival, supported by strong performances from O'Toole and Noiret. Its wartime setting, atmospheric tension, and moral complexity make it a solid choice for fans of historical dramas and character-driven thrillers.

How long is Murphy's War?

Murphy's War runs for 107 minutes, delivering a tight, intense viewing experience.

🎥 Trailer

About Murphy's War (1971) — A lone survivor's vengeful fight in the final days of WWII

Set against the fading embers of World War II, *Murphy's War* (1971) follows a lone survivor's descent into vengeance against the odds. Directed by Peter Yates, this gripping drama stars Peter O'Toole as Murphy, the sole survivor of a brutally attacked Allied crew, rescued and deposited at a remote mission station near the Orinoco River. There, fueled by rage and purpose, he plots to sink a German U-Boat that destroyed his ship—no matter the cost. With the reluctant help of Louis (Philippe Noiret), the oil company administrator who becomes an unlikely ally, Murphy transforms from victim to vigilante. The film blends raw intensity with themes of isolation, justice, and survival, painting a stark portrait of war's lingering scars.

As the world celebrated peace, Murphy declared his own private war. With atmospheric tension and a relentless pace, *Murphy's War* captures the spirit of a man driven by vengeance in a limbo between worlds. The clash of personalities—O'Toole's fiery determination against Noiret's measured caution—adds depth to this war drama, making it a compelling watch for fans of historical storytelling and character-driven tension.