The Great Santini

Robert Duvall gives one of his most memorable performances in the title role of this 1979 drama about a hardcore Marine lieutenant named “Bull” Meechum, a fighter ace who calls himself "The Great Santini." Bull compensates for peacetime inactivity by waging war on his intimidated children. His wife, Lillian (Blythe Danner), lovingly tolerates his behavior, but his 18-year-old son Ben (Michael O'Keefe) is working up the courage to defy his domineering dad, whose need for competition borders on maniacal. When push comes to shove (and shove they certainly do), the son ultimately earns his father's begrudging respect. Military brats may well recognize their own experiences in this comedic drama, but anyone can relate to the Meechum family's patriarchal dysfunction. Writer-director Lewis John Carlino (adapting the novel by Pat Conroy) does a fine job of balancing humor with the kind of stressful anxiety that can either strengthen a family or tear it apart. Both Duvall and O'Keefe were deservedly nominated for Academy Awards. Re-released on DVD-R as part of the Warner Archive Collection, this is highly recommended. (J. Shannon)