Why We Fight: Prelude to War
“The US government puts the finger on the United Nations' enemies”
Synopsis
Prelude to War was the first film of Frank Capra's Why We Fight propaganda film series, commissioned by the Pentagon and George C. Marshall. It was made to convince American troops of the necessity of combating the Axis Powers during World War II. This film examines the differences between democratic and fascist states.
Part of the Why We Fight
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Release History & Theatrical Window
May 27, 1942
Wide Cinema Exhibition
July 12, 2004
Physical Home Media
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Frank Capra, Anatole Litvak
- Original Score
- Alfred Newman, Hugo Friedhofer
- Original Title
- Why We Fight: Prelude to War
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 53m
- Production Studios
- War Activities Committee of the Motion Pictures Industry, U.S. War Department
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Frank Capra, Anatole Litvak
Alfred Newman, Hugo Friedhofer
Robert Flaherty
William Hornbeck
Department Leadership Roster
Frank Capra
Director
Anatole Litvak
Director
Robert Flaherty
Director of Photography
William Hornbeck
Editor
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Why We Fight: Prelude to War.
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War: World War II
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Frequently Asked Questions About Why We Fight: Prelude to War
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Why We Fight: Prelude to War about?
Prelude to War was the first film of Frank Capra's Why We Fight propaganda film series, commissioned by the Pentagon and George C. Marshall. It was made to convince American troops of the necessity of combating the Axis Powers during World War II. This film examines the differences between democratic and fascist states.
Who directed Why We Fight: Prelude to War?
Why We Fight: Prelude to War was directed by Frank Capra, Anatole Litvak.
Who stars in Why We Fight: Prelude to War?
The principal cast of Why We Fight: Prelude to War includes Walter Huston, Max Schmeling, Adolf Hitler.
When was Why We Fight: Prelude to War released and how long is it?
Why We Fight: Prelude to War was released in 1942 with a total runtime of 53m.
Who composed the musical score for Why We Fight: Prelude to War?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Why We Fight: Prelude to War was composed by Alfred Newman, Hugo Friedhofer.