Tripoli (1950)

Tripoli Poster

In 1805, the United States battles the pirates of Tripoli as the Marines fight to raise the American flag.

Film Overview
"Tripoli" is a historic experience film directed by Will Price and produced by Hal B. Wallis in the United States it was released in 1950. The movie is set during the First Barbary War (1801-- 1805) between the United States and Tripolitania. The primary characters consist of John Payne as Lieutenant O'Bannon, Maureen O'Hara as Countess D'Arneau, and Howard Da Silva as Hamet Karamanly.

Plot Summary
Lieutenant O'Bannon is bought to accompany Countess D'Arneau to Tripoli, with a mission of providing gifts and a ransom in exchange for American hostages held by the Bey (ruler) of Tripoli. Nevertheless, they find a conspiracy managed by the Bey's sibling, Hamet Karamanly. The sibling intends to overthrow the ruler using the ransom as a bribe to secure effective allies. All of a sudden, O'Bannon and the Countess enter into Hamet's plans to depose his bro.

Main Characters
John Payne, playing Lieutenant O'Bannon, portrays a strong, assertive, and brave marine, committed to his military duties but likewise a bit naive about political intrigues and romantic involvements. Maureen O'Hara plays Countess D'Arneau, a worldly, smart, stunning, and somewhat mystical lady with an individual program that slowly unfolds through the movie. The antagonistic Hamet Karamanly, played by Howard Da Silva, is shown as a crafty, devious, and ambitious male, eager to increase to power at any cost.

Romantic Subplot
The movie incorporates a romantic subplot in between Lieutenant O'Bannon and Countess D'Arneau. Initially thrown together by situation, the pair gradually establish sensations for each other, supplying a softer contrast to the political espionage and war unfolding around them. O'Hara's efficiency brings an emotional depth to the story, making the romantic subplot as compelling as the primary narrative.

Mission and Battle
O'Bannon, at first unaware of the conspiracy, gets caught in the political espionage and had to communicate between the United States fleet and Hamet's insurrection forces. The movie's climax includes the Battle of Derna, where O'Bannon leads a charge to storm the city's fort. In spite of being surpassed, the rebels succeed thanks to their brave combating and tactical planning, conquering the Bey's soldiers and taking control of the city. This victory marked a significant juncture in the First Barbary War, leading to completion of hostilities.

Historical Context
"Tripoli" tells a fictionalized account of the First Barbary War, a necessary episode in American early-19th century history, showcasing its military expertise and diplomatic acumen. The movie carefully follows the historical events of the time but includes its layers of romance, conspiracy, and individual heroism for remarkable impact. This approach improves the cinematic appeal of the movie while advising viewers of the wider historic context.

Conclusion
In conclusion, "Tripoli" is a fascinating blend of history, action, and love, offering an entertaining analysis of a considerable chapter in early American military history. With its compelling characters, significant battle scenes, political conspiracies, and romantic subplot, the movie succeeds in holding the viewer's attention, making it a classic Hollywood experience. In spite of its historical liberties, the film maintains a core of credibility, depicting the guts, resourcefulness, and durability of those associated with the First Barbary War.

Top Cast

  • Maureen O'Hara (small)
    Maureen O'Hara
    Gräfin D'Arneau
  • John Payne (small)
    John Payne
    Lt. O'Bannion
  • Howard Da Silva (small)
    Howard Da Silva
    Capt. Demetrios
  • Phillip Reed (small)
    Phillip Reed
    Hamet Karamanly
  • Grant Withers (small)
    Grant Withers
    Sgt. Derek
  • Lowell Gilmore (small)
    Lowell Gilmore
    Lt. Tripp
  • Frank Fenton (small)
    Frank Fenton
    Capitaine Adams
  • Grandon Rhodes (small)
    Grandon Rhodes
    Commandant Barron
  • Connie Gilchrist (small)
    Connie Gilchrist
    Henriette
  • Alan Napier (small)
    Alan Napier
    Khalil
  • Herbert Heyes (small)
    Herbert Heyes
    Général Eaton