The Proud and Profane 1956
"A MOVIE OF STARTLING FRANKNESS...!"
Set against the sun-scorched shores of New Caledonia in the waning days of World War II, *The Proud and Profane (1956)* weaves a poignant romance under the shadow of war.
Director: George Seaton
Cast
William Holden
Lt. Col. Colin Black
Deborah Kerr
Lee Ashley
Thelma Ritter
Kate Connors
Dewey Martin
Eddie Wodcik
William Redfield
Chaplain Lt. (jg) Holmes
Ross Bagdasarian
Louie
Adam Williams
Eustace Press
Marion Ross
Joan
Theodore Newton
Bob Kilpatrick
Richard Shannon
Major
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Proud and Profane (1956) about?
A Red Cross volunteer travels to New Caledonia during WWII to uncover the truth behind her husband's death, only to find herself entangled in a passionate but complicated romance with a hardened Marine officer. The film contrasts personal longing with the brutal realities of war, revealing how love and grief intertwine in extraordinary times.
Who directed The Proud and Profane?
George Seaton brought his signature touch to this dramatic exploration of wartime love and loss.
Who stars in The Proud and Profane?
The film features William Holden as the brooding Marine officer, Deborah Kerr as the resilient widow, and Thelma Ritter as a sharp-witted companion, with supporting turns from Dewey Martin and William Redfield.
Is The Proud and Profane (1956) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this understated WWII romance stands out for its emotional depth and stellar cast. Its themes of love, loss, and redemption resonate in a way that feels both classic and timeless, making it a rewarding watch for fans of historical dramas and character-driven storytelling.
How long is The Proud and Profane?
The runtime is 111 minutes, offering a compact yet immersive experience.
About The Proud and Profane (1956) — A wartime romance with Holden and Kerr
Set against the sun-scorched shores of New Caledonia in the waning days of World War II, *The Proud and Profane (1956)* weaves a poignant romance under the shadow of war. Directed with George Seaton's characteristic blend of emotional depth and visual nuance, this drama follows Lee Ashley, a compassionate Red Cross volunteer who arrives on the island to uncover the truth behind her late husband's death at the Battle of Guadalcanal. Her journey takes a dramatic turn when she crosses paths with the rugged and enigmatic Marine Lieutenant Colonel Colin Buck, whose own complicated past threatens to overshadow their fleeting connection. As Lee grapples with grief, love, and the harsh realities of war, the film explores the fragility of human bonds amidst chaos, delivering a story as raw as it is tender.
William Holden and Deborah Kerr ignite the screen with their magnetic chemistry, anchoring a cast that includes the indelible Thelma Ritter. Filled with wartime tension, moral ambiguity, and a haunting exploration of sacrifice, *The Proud and Profane* is a timeless tale of resilience and rediscovery, perfect for fans of classic romance and historical dramas.
