For the Common Defense! Poster

For the Common Defense! 1942

★ 4.77 votes22 min📅 1942-06-20

"Another Crime Does Not Pay Subject"

Dive into the wartime intrigue of *For the Common Defense! (1942)*, a gripping short film directed by Allan Kenward that blends drama and crime against the backdrop of global conflict.

Director: Allan Kenward

Cast

John Litel
John Litel
Subprefect Santiago Castillo
Douglas Fowley
Douglas Fowley
Dutch Mullner
Stephen McNally
Stephen McNally
Lt. Guytan
Van Johnson
Van Johnson
Agent Pritchard
Egon Brecher
Egon Brecher
Adolph (uncredited)
Jacqueline Dalya
Jacqueline Dalya
Buckley's girlfriend (uncredited)
Mark Daniels
Mark Daniels
MGM Crime Reporter (uncredited)
Steven Geray
Steven Geray
Heinrich Ort (uncredited)
José Portugal
Officer (uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *For the Common Defense! (1942)* about?

This wartime short film follows a US agent traveling to Chile and Colombia to thwart an Axis plot to ship stolen ammunition. Working alongside local authorities, he exposes a dangerous sabotage plan, showcasing international cooperation against fascist threats during World War II.

Who directed *For the Common Defense! (1942)*?

Allan Kenward directed this wartime crime drama, helming a short film that reflects the patriotic themes of early 1940s cinema.

Who stars in *For the Common Defense! (1942)*?

The film features John Litel, Douglas Fowley, Stephen McNally, Van Johnson, and Egon Brecher, delivering strong performances in this high-stakes wartime narrative.

Is *For the Common Defense! (1942)* worth watching?

If you enjoy wartime dramas with a crime twist or appreciate films that highlight historical cooperation against fascism, *For the Common Defense!* is a solid pick. Its tight runtime and thematic relevance make it a unique watch, though casual viewers might find its propaganda leanings a bit heavy-handed.

How long is *For the Common Defense! (1942)*?

The film has a runtime of 22 minutes, perfect for a quick but impactful viewing experience.

For the Common Defense! (1942) — Wartime Crime Drama Short Review & Info

Dive into the wartime intrigue of *For the Common Defense! (1942)*, a gripping short film directed by Allan Kenward that blends drama and crime against the backdrop of global conflict. Set during World War II, this *Crime Does Not Pay* entry follows a determined US government agent on a high-stakes mission to South America, where he teams up with Chilean and Colombian authorities to dismantle an Axis plot. The film's tense atmosphere crackles with urgency as it highlights international cooperation and the fight against fascist threats, all while delivering a stern reminder of justice prevailing in the shadows of war.

Starring John Litel, Douglas Fowley, and Stephen McNally, the cast brings depth to a story rooted in real-world tensions of the era. With themes of solidarity and vigilance, *For the Common Defense!* captures the spirit of a united front against tyranny, making it a compelling watch for fans of historical dramas and wartime narratives. Whether you're drawn to its sharp direction or the collaborative heroism at its core, this 22-minute short packs a punch in both storytelling and cinematic history.