A war picture made memorable chiefly through the casting as himself of Audie Murphy, America’s most-decorated soldier of World War 2, To Hell and Back, based on Murphy’s autobiography, delivers the goods. Though in part perhaps standard for the era — e.g., in the quirks of the assorted members of Murphy’s platoon — the film nevertheless captures the valor not just of its lead, but of his comrades, as well as the fragility of life in the war zone and the hidden (or not-so-hidden) burdens of those who served. The supporting cast, including Marshall Thompson (of later Daktari fame) and Jack Kelly (of Maverick), handle their roles well, and the viewer does come to feel the loss when the vagaries of warfare claim another victim. Through it all, the soft-spoken Murphy’s humility and dedication to his family and to his service brethren shine through.

  Recommended. Otto finds this one pleasing enough to relax.