MovieChat Forums > The Sand Pebbles (1966) Discussion > A couple of problems with the battle at ...

A couple of problems with the battle at the boom

posted 10 years ago by gschwertley
5 replies | jump to latest

I've liked this picture for years, and watch it again when it comes on cable. However, two problems as to accuracy nag at me about the battle at the boom. (1) When the main gun on deck is fired, it fails to recoil. (2) There are armor plates to lower over the windows on the bridge area, but when the shooting starts, they fail to drop them down. I'd think that was part of the general quarters SOP.

Always enjoy Holman's hosing action with the B.A.R.

[–] hitking 10 years ago

I don't recall the scene all that well, but I do recall seeing the armor plates.

I think they waited but eventually put the plates into the defensive position.

They don't seem to show the movie very often but next time I'll try and record it and check.

[–] Toshi51 10 years ago

Captain Collins orders the armor flaps closed in the wheel house while he is still on the flying bridge. The quartermaster's flaps were left open to maneuver the boat.

I agree with main armament simulation, a week point for the film.

[–] jakholman 10 years ago

The road show version has an extended boom scene, the San Pablo has to pull back out of range to put out fires on the upper deck.

[–] Toshi51 10 years ago

What is "the road show version"? I have only heard "Road Show" in connection with stage plays. Is this a longer version of the movie which you are referring to?

[–] jakholman 10 years ago

Yeah, it was a longer version back in the 60s. There's a collectors edition of The Sand Pebbles on dvd, the 2nd disc has the road show version. You can find the extra parts on the web too.