Give 'em Hell Harry

Give 'em Hell Harry is a 1975 biographical drama film that tells the story of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president of the United States, who served from 1945 to 1953. Directed by Steve Binder and co-directed by Peter H. Hunt, the movie stars James Whitmore in the role of Truman.

The screenplay is based on a one-man play written by Samuel Gallu, which depicts Truman's life from his childhood in Missouri to his presidency. The movie begins with a scene of Truman walking onto the stage of the Missouri Repertory Theater, where he is about to give a speech to his supporters. From there, the movie takes audiences on a journey through Truman's life, showcasing his accomplishments and struggles both before and during his presidency.

Whitmore's performance as Truman is nothing less than stellar. He delivers his lines with a commanding presence, and his ability to capture the essence of the man he is portraying is remarkable. As the movie unfolds, Whitmore portrays Truman's unwavering commitment to his principles, his determination to do what is right for the American people, his frustrations with Congress, and his decision to drop the atomic bombs on Japan. He also captures the humor and down-to-earth personality that made Truman beloved by many.

One of the unique features of Give 'em Hell Harry is that it was filmed in one take. This means that there were no retakes or edits, and the entire movie was shot in one continuous 104-minute take. This decision gives the movie a sense of authenticity, as if the viewers are watching a live performance by Truman himself.

The movie's direction and cinematography are also noteworthy. The camera follows Truman as he walks around the stage, delivering his speeches and engaging with the audience. The use of close-up shots and medium shots helps to enhance the emotional impact of Truman's words and actions.

The set design is minimalistic, with only a podium, a microphone, and a few props on stage. This design choice allows the focus to remain on Whitmore and his portrayal of Truman, without distracting the audience with extraneous details.

Throughout the movie, Truman's story is interspersed with archival footage and newsreels of the time, providing historical context for the events of Truman's life. This use of footage also helps to break up the monotony of the one-man stage production style.

Give 'em Hell Harry is a captivating movie that provides a glimpse into the life of one of America's most beloved presidents. Truman's story is one of determination, courage, and sacrifice, and the movie brings that to life in a way that is both heartfelt and entertaining. With Whitmore's remarkable performance, the film serves as a testament to Truman's legacy, reminding viewers of his contributions to America and the world.