A GUY NAMED JOE (1943)

Van Johnson shot to stardom with a big assist from co-star Spencer Tracy in this inspirational World War II aviation drama. Tracy stars as a pilot who crashes during his final mission over Europe. In heaven, he’s assigned to provide unseen guidance to a young pilot (Johnson), only to watch the newcomer fall in love with Tracy’s sweetheart (Irene Dunne). Shortly after filming began, Johnson was in a car accident that threatened to keep him out of work for four months. MGM wanted to recast, but Tracy and Dunne insisted they stick with the rising young star. The film was a smash hit and Tracy and Johnson became friends for life. MGM veteran A. Arnold Gillespie supervised the special effects, while Ward Bond, Lionel Barrymore, and a pre-stardom Esther Williams played supporting roles.

d. Victor Fleming, 120m, 35mm

Courtesy of Park Circus and Warner Brothers Classics.