Destroyer (1943): cast, story & where to watch
1943 · Film · ★ 6.5
Released in 1943, Destroyer is a drama, adventure and war film directed by William A. Seiter, running about 99 minutes. “You'll Always Remember . . . And Never Forget . . . Destroyer” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Flagwaving story of a new American destroyer, the JOHN PAUL JONES, from the day her keel is laid, to what was very nearly her last voyage. Among the crew, is Steve Boleslavski, a shipyard welder that helped build her, who reenlists, with his old rank of Chief bosuns mate. After failing her sea trials, she is assigned to the mail run, until caught up in a disparate battle with a Japanese sub. After getting torpedoed, and on the verge of sinking, the Captain, and crew hatch a plan to try and save the ship, and destroy the sub.
Who’s in it. Destroyer stars Edward G. Robinson as Steven 'Boley' Boleslavski, Glenn Ford as Mickey Donohue, Edgar Buchanan as Kansas Jackson and Marguerite Chapman as Mary Boleslavski, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.5/10, Destroyer has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Destroyer page.
If you liked it. Fans of Destroyer tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Destroyer (1943)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Destroyer change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Destroyer worth watching?
- Destroyer holds an audience score of 6.5 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama, adventure and war. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Destroyer?
- Destroyer stars Edward G. Robinson, Glenn Ford, Edgar Buchanan, Marguerite Chapman and Warren Ashe.
- When was Destroyer released?
- Destroyer was released in 1943, with a runtime of about 99 minutes.