Salute John Citizen (1942)

Salute John Citizen Poster

A typical working family have to cope with living through the Blitz, adapting to its privations, and eventually making the ultimate sacrifice for king & country.

Introduction
"Salute John Citizen" is a British movie launched in 1942. This war-time drama was directed by Maurice Elvey and written by W.P. Lipscomb and Elizabeth Baron. The story revolves around the life of an average working-class household during World War II. In the middle of the background of the ruthless war, the movie portrays the guts, struggles, and durability of common civilians throughout an unpredictable time.

Plot Summary
The movie begins by introducing viewers to the Every family, including John (Edward Rigby), his other half and their three children - Joe, Vi, and Freddie. John works as a factory employee however loses his job at the start of the war, forcing Joe, the eldest child, to employ in the army to assist support the household economically. Consequently, the story sheds light on various members of the Every family dealing with the repercussions of the war.

Character Development and Themes
"Salute John Citizen" is predominantly a character-driven movie that focuses on the intricacies and endurance of the Every family in the heart of war. John showcases strength, guts, and durability when he is pushed into difficulty due to the war. He highly thinks in unity and supports his children in their respective decisions. The story provides a nuanced representation of his spouse who efficiently handles the family in the middle of war-time and supports her household completely.

The movie mainly highlights the domestic impacts of war and how it disrupts the peaceful lives of civilians. The narrative also represents sacrifice for the nation, seen in Joe's employed in the army, and the effects of war on families when he gets caught and becomes a detainee of war however is eventually freed.

Reception and Influence
"Salute John Citizen" played a significant role in forming war-time movie theater during the 1940s by providing an intimate insight into civilian life throughout the war. The film was mainly praised for its practical representation of a common family's life on the home front throughout World War II.

Conclusion
Influenced by the historical context of its time, "Salute John Citizen" provides a raw and realistic portrayal of how the war had permeated the lives of common individuals on the house front. Through the trials dealt with by the Every household, the motion picture effectively records the struggle, bravery, and determination of civilians throughout a crucial period in history. Therefore, "Salute John Citizen" captures not simply a snapshot of war-time Britain however is a homage to the strength and steady spirit of the commoner during World War II.

Top Cast

  • Edward Rigby (small)
    Edward Rigby
  • Mabel Constanduros
  • Jimmy Hanley (small)
    Jimmy Hanley
  • Peggy Cummins (small)
    Peggy Cummins
  • Dinah Sheridan (small)
    Dinah Sheridan
  • Stanley Holloway (small)
    Stanley Holloway