Ever watch a film that could have been more iconic if not for a studio executive dropping the ball? You might remember a movie about a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean war featuring the sexual antics of a surgeon and a nurse. This is a movie directed by a legendary filmmaker. But are you thinking about a movie starring Humphrey Bogart? Richard Brooks’ Battle Circus was the original film about a MASH unit, but has become obscured by Robert Altman’s M*A*S*H*. This all could been prevented if in 1953 a studio executive hadn’t rejected the title MASH cause it sounded like mashed potatoes. What audience wanted to see a movie called MASH, there was a big one in 1970 that also stuck around for 11 seasons on TV. So instead they called the Bogart movie Battle Circus as if that wouldn’t make an audience think they’d be seeing lions, tigers and clowns take on Nazi troops.
Army Nurse Lt. Ruth McGara (June Allyson) arrives for her first day with MASH 8666. There’s no real time for a tour when a North Korean jet attacks the tents. Major Jed Webbe (Bogart) grabs her and ducks under an ambulance. She’s not prepared for this life. When they pack up the camp, she thinks the war is over. They’re just moving to another location to be ready for more casualties. It’s up to Webbe to teach her the hard truths about being this close to the battle lines.
Battle Circus does have a unique angle for its time of men and women in the middle of combat situations. Webbe isn’t close to a saint. He’s a hard drinker who enjoys no strings attached flings with the new nurses. Stressful situations require a little carnal relief. Webbe’s eager to hook up with McGara. There’s a bit of comedy when he wanders into the women’s shower room during a downpour. She’s shocked, but slipping in the mud lightens up the mood. McGara wants more from Webbe than an occasional fling. But can you get serious in workplace where a sniper can break things up fast?
Bogart works out nicely as the surgeon running the portable hospital. He doesn’t come off as a complete cad when he puts the moves on Allyson. “You’re about to wreck something beautiful,” he warns when she asks about his life back in America. This film would have had a better legacy if only the studio suits hadn’t wrecked the title. Battle Circus should be recognized as the daddy of M*A*S*H*.
The video is 1.33:1. The black and white transfer is rather clean for its age. You’ll see all of Bogart’s moves as he puts the moves on the fresh nurses. The audio is Dolby Digital Mono. The words don’t get drowned out by the helicopter blades and gunfire.
Original Trailer (2:32) emphasizes the human drama, romance and action.
Warner Archive presents Battle Circus. Directed by: Richard Brooks. Screenplay by: Richard Brooks, Allen Rivkin and Laura Kerr. Starring: Humphrey Bogart, June Allyson and Keenan Wynn. Running Time: 93 minutes. Rating: Unrated. Released: September 20, 2012. Available at Amazon.com.
