Is Submarine Command Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Submarine Command is likely a skip if you enjoy War movies.
It features a runtime of 87 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Submarine Command Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1951, Submarine Command emerges as a significant entry in the War, Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Submarine commander Ken White is forced to suddenly submerge, leaving his captain and another crew member to die outside the sub during WW II. Unlike standard genre fare, Submarine Command attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any War is often anchored by its ensemble, and Submarine Command features a noteworthy lineup led by William Holden . Supported by the likes of Nancy Olson and William Bendix , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Submarine Command (1951) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.6/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Submarine Command Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Submarine Command is a War, Drama film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Submarine Command Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Submarine Command attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to war resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the war themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Submarine Command reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Submarine Command Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Submarine Command uses real-world events as narrative inspiration. As a war, drama film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: Submarine Command adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Submarine Command?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for War films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Submarine Command
- William Holden – Lt. Cmdr. Ken White
- Nancy Olson – Carol
- William Bendix – CPO Boyer
- Don Taylor – Lt. Cmdr. Peter Morris
- Arthur Franz – Lt. Arnie Carlson
Top Highlights
William HoldenLt. Cmdr. Ken White
Nancy OlsonCarol
William BendixCPO Boyer
Don TaylorLt. Cmdr. Peter Morris
Arthur FranzLt. Arnie Carlson
Darryl HickmanEns. Jack Wheelwright
Peggy WebberMrs. Alice Rice
Moroni OlsenRear Adm. Joshua Rice
Jack GregsonCmdr. Joshua Rice
Jack KellyLt. Paul Barton
Where to Watch Submarine Command Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Submarine Command is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.6/10, and global collection metrics, Submarine Command stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1951 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Submarine Command movie hit or flop?
Submarine Command has received mixed reviews with a 5.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Submarine Command worth watching?
Submarine Command is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of War, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Submarine Command online?
Submarine Command may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for Submarine Command
William Holden stars in/narrates this rather humdrum submariner story from the end of WWII and the commencement of the Korean War that offers little by way of uniqueness or jeopardy. Holden, himself, is fine - but the tale of an executive officer making a tough, ultimately tragic, battle decision that causes him to become a pariah to many of his crew is just too old hat, as is the ending which offers a redemption that was never really in doubt. Technically, it conveys some of the claustrophobic aspects of living and working on a submarine well; and William Bendix as "CPO Boyer" demonstrates how effectively a man can hold a grudge, but (no pun intended) it's all just a bit too shallow and procedural. Worth a watch for the photography, but the story is neither here nor there...
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
