The Sad Sack 1957
"The Lovable Laughable GI Goof!"
Jerry Lewis headlines this hilarious 1957 military comedy set in the chaos of early basic training. When Private Meredith Bixby's bumbling antics extend his service from six weeks to nearly a year and a half, the Army assigns WAC Major Shelton to whip him into shape.
Director: George Marshall
Cast
Jerry Lewis
Private Meredith C. Bixby
David Wayne
Corporal Larry Dolan
Phyllis Kirk
Maj. Shelton
Peter Lorre
Abdul
Joe Mantell
Pvt. Stan Wenaslawsky
Gene Evans
Sgt. Major Elmer Pulley
George Dolenz
Ali Mustapha
Liliane Montevecchi
Zita
Shepperd Strudwick
Major General Vanderlip
Abraham Sofaer
Hassim
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Sad Sack (1957) about?
The film follows Private Meredith Bixby, whose chronic clumsiness turns a six-week basic training assignment into a 17-month ordeal. Desperate to turn him into a real soldier, Major Shelton enlists reluctant helpers to guide him, but their efforts only lead to more chaos—especially when Bixby is sent to Morocco for leave.
Who directed The Sad Sack?
The Sad Sack was directed by George Marshall, a filmmaker known for blending humor and adventure in mid-century comedies.
Who stars in The Sad Sack?
The movie stars comedy legend Jerry Lewis as Private Meredith Bixby, supported by David Wayne, Phyllis Kirk, Peter Lorre, and Joe Mantell.
Is The Sad Sack (1957) worth watching?
If you love classic comedies with slapstick energy and a lively cast, The Sad Sack delivers plenty of laughs. While it may not be as widely known today, Lewis' performance and the film's playful take on army life make it a fun, lighthearted watch for fans of vintage comedy.
How long is The Sad Sack?
The Sad Sack runs for 98 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Sad Sack (1957) — Classic Jerry Lewis Comedy Full of Army Antics
Jerry Lewis headlines this hilarious 1957 military comedy set in the chaos of early basic training. When Private Meredith Bixby's bumbling antics extend his service from six weeks to nearly a year and a half, the Army assigns WAC Major Shelton to whip him into shape. Her unconventional training team—Corporal Dolan and Private Stan Wensalawsky—seem more interested in settling scores than shaping up Bixby, leading to increasingly ridiculous disasters. Shipped off to Morocco for more mishaps, Bixby's journey becomes a satire of discipline versus defiance, blending slapstick with sharp wit.
Directed by George Marshall, The Sad Sack captures the absurdity of army life through Lewis' energetic performance, surrounded by a cast that includes Peter Lorre and Phyllis Kirk in roles that balance humor with heart. The film thrives on its lighthearted chaos, where every attempt at order spirals into comic mayhem, making it a standout in classic comedy cinema.
