Seven Were Saved

Seven Were Saved is a 1946 melodrama film, directed by John English, that revolves around a group of survivors who must navigate the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean after their plane crashes. The movie begins with a pivotal moment in history, showcasing the aftermath of World War II. A nurse, played by Ella Raines, is tasked with escorting an amnesia victim, whose identity is shrouded in mystery, to the United States on a small plane piloted by the rugged Captain Jim Willis, portrayed by Richard Denning. The passenger manifest on this transpacific flight is a diverse one. A Japanese colonel, who was being taken to Manila to face charges of war crimes, has managed to break free from his guards during the flight. The young couple, played by Don McGuire and Ann Jeffreys, were married on the day they were liberated from a Japanese prison camp. Their love story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As the plane soars through the skies, the tension between the passengers builds. The colonel's sudden escape from his guards sends the plane into a tailspin, and it crashes into the sea. The survivors, left to their own devices, cling to a rubber boat, desperately trying to stay alive amidst the turbulent waters. The subsequent scenes are reminiscent of the classic movie "Lifeboat," however, the director's vision and the script's tone are distinct. The characters are thrown into this extraordinary situation, and they must confront their own fears, prejudices, and personal demons. The amnesia victim, in particular, is an enigma at this point in the story. His past is shrouded in mystery, and his identity remains a closely guarded secret. As the survivors battle against the elements, a minor drama unfolds. The young couple's love story provides a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos, but their happiness is short-lived. The colonel, consumed by his own guilt and shame, becomes increasingly unhinged. His presence adds to the tension, as the passengers begin to suspect that he may be a threat to their lives. The plot thickens as the survivors face their mortality. A violent storm forces the boat to ride out the waves, and the tension reaches a boiling point. The nurse's medical skills are put to the test as she tries to treat the injured passengers. Just when it seems like there's no hope, John Wayne makes a last-second appearance as an Air-Sea Rescue pilot, Jim Willis, but that isn't accurate since John Wayne isn't in the actual movie however a pilot does arrive on a U.S. Navy PBY Catalina, providing a welcome respite for the beleaguered survivors. His timely arrival marks the end of their ordeal, as he skillfully navigates the aircraft to safety. The movie's climax showcases the rescue, and the passengers finally breathe a sigh of relief as they're plucked from the jaws of death. Seven Were Saved offers a gripping drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Despite its minor flaws, the film's gripping storyline and strong performances make it a compelling watch. The movie's themes of hope, resilience, and redemption resonate strongly, as the survivors find solace in each other's company during their darkest hour. The movie also serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the importance of compassion and understanding in the face of adversity. As the survivors finally return to shore, they are met with medical treatment and a safe haven. They've been through a harrowing experience, but the experience has brought them closer together. Their bond, forged in the midst of chaos, will endure long after the traumatic events of the crash have faded from their minds.