The Bridges at Toko-Ri (Special Edition) (Blu-ray)

The explosive Korean War novel by celebrated author James A. Michener (Sayonara, South Pacific) soars to the screen in this rousing cinema classic from director Mark Robson (Bright Victory, Von Ryan’s Express). Not every Navy pilot can guide his aircraft from a wave-tossed carrier deck, seek out targets over unfamiliar Korean terrain, and then return to what looks like a speck in the sea. Naval Reservist Harry Brubaker (movie legend William Holden, Stalag 17) can. This masterful story of a war-weary World War II veteran who must leave his family to fight again combines moving drama with surefire, bombs-away aerial action. Luminous Grace Kelly (High Noon) co-stars as Brubaker’s loving wife, and rounding out a stellar cast are Fredric March (Inherit the Wind), Mickey Rooney (The Bold and the Brave) and Robert Strauss (The Seven Year Itch). The Bridges at Toko-Ri landed two Academy Award nominations for 1955, with Paramount’s Special Effects team winning the coveted Oscar for their thrilling, fiery handiwork.