Donald Sutherland Early Movies: A Journey Through Classic Cinema

Welcome, fellow cinephiles, to a delightful romp through the early cinematic adventures of the illustrious Donald Sutherland. Buckle up as we embark on a journey through the corridors of classic cinema, where Sutherland’s versatile talent shines like a beacon in the fog of Hollywood’s yesteryears.

Picture this: a young, dashing Sutherland storming onto the silver screen, armed with charisma as sharp as a saber and acting chops smoother than a jazz riff. From the war-torn antics of “The Dirty Dozen” to the irreverent surgical chaos of “MAS*H,” he carved out a niche with the finesse of a sculptor chiseling marble.

But wait, it doesn’t stop there. In “Kelly’s Heroes,” he played Sergeant Oddball with such panache, you’d think he invented the word “hippie” before it was cool. And who can forget his turn in “Klute,” where he spun intrigue alongside Jane Fonda like a duo of detectives in a labyrinth of suspense?

Ah, and then there’s “Don’t Look Now,” where Sutherland navigates Venice’s murky waters, both literal and figurative, with a mix of vulnerability and grit that would make even the most seasoned gondolier jealous.

So, join me as we uncover the early gems of Donald Sutherland’s cinematic legacy, where every scene is a testament to his wit, charm, and knack for making us laugh, cry, and question the very essence of celluloid storytelling. It’s a journey you won’t want to miss, filled with laughter, tears, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.

1. The Dirty Dozen (1967)

“The Dirty Dozen,” released in 1967 and directed by Robert Aldrich, is a classic war film set during World War II. The story follows Major John Reisman, played by Lee Marvin, who is tasked with a seemingly impossible mission: to train and lead a group of twelve convicted soldiers sentenced to death or lengthy prison terms. Their mission? To infiltrate a heavily guarded chateau behind enemy lines in France and eliminate high-ranking German officers during the eve of the D-Day invasion.

Among these twelve soldiers are characters with diverse backgrounds and criminal histories, including a rapist, a deserter, and a murderer. Despite their troubled pasts, Major Reisman manages to whip them into a cohesive unit through rigorous training and discipline. As they prepare for their dangerous mission, tensions rise among the men, and the film delves into their personal struggles, loyalties, and the moral complexities of their assignment.

“The Dirty Dozen” culminates in a gripping and action-packed climax as the twelve soldiers embark on their mission, facing perilous obstacles and intense combat along the way. The film is celebrated for its ensemble cast, gritty realism, and exploration of themes such as redemption, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between heroism and criminality in times of war.

2. MAS*H (1970)

“MAS*H,” released in 1970 and directed by Robert Altman, is a satirical black comedy that takes place during the Korean War. The film follows the antics and escapades of the staff of a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) unit, specifically focusing on two irreverent and anti-authoritarian surgeons, Captain Benjamin Franklin “Hawkeye” Pierce (played by Donald Sutherland) and Captain “Trapper” John McIntyre (played by Elliott Gould).

Set against the backdrop of the war, the film depicts the chaotic and often absurd situations faced by the medical personnel as they cope with the horrors of surgery and the absurdities of military bureaucracy. Hawkeye and Trapper John, known for their irreverent humor and unconventional methods, frequently clash with their strict commanding officer, Colonel Henry Blake (played by Roger Bowen), and the uptight chief nurse Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan (played by Sally Kellerman).

Throughout the film, Hawkeye and Trapper John engage in pranks, jokes, and acts of defiance against the war machine, all while trying to maintain their sanity and humanity in the face of overwhelming carnage. The film’s tone swings between dark humor and poignant moments, highlighting the camaraderie and camaraderie among the MASH unit amidst the absurdity and tragedy of war.

“MAS*H” was groundbreaking for its time, blending humor with a critique of war and authority, and it remains a classic that resonates with audiences for its sharp wit, memorable characters, and commentary on the absurdity of conflict.

3. Kelly’s Heroes (1970)

“Kelly’s Heroes,” released in 1970 and directed by Brian G. Hutton, is a World War II action-comedy film that blends elements of adventure, heist, and war drama. The film stars Clint Eastwood as Private Kelly, alongside an ensemble cast that includes Telly Savalas, Don Rickles, Donald Sutherland, and Carroll O’Connor.

The story is set in France during World War II and centers around a group of American soldiers who discover a secret stash of gold bars behind enemy lines. Led by Private Kelly, a resourceful and cunning soldier, they devise a plan to steal the gold for themselves. Despite the risks and the chaos of the war around them, Kelly convinces a motley crew of soldiers—including a tank commander named Sergeant Oddball (played by Donald Sutherland), who marches to the beat of his own drum—to join him on this audacious mission.

As they journey deeper into enemy territory, facing German soldiers and navigating treacherous landscapes, the group encounters both comedic and dramatic moments. The film’s blend of action and humor, coupled with its unconventional take on wartime heroics and the pursuit of personal gain amidst the chaos of battle, makes “Kelly’s Heroes” a unique entry in the war film genre.

With memorable characters, witty dialogue, and exhilarating action sequences, “Kelly’s Heroes” has earned a cult following over the years for its entertainment value and its portrayal of soldiers as unlikely treasure hunters in the midst of war.

4. Klute (1971)

“Klute,” released in 1971 and directed by Alan J. Pakula, is a psychological thriller and neo-noir film starring Donald Sutherland and Jane Fonda. The film is set in New York City and revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a businessman, Tom Gruneman. Fonda portrays Bree Daniels, a call girl who becomes entangled in the investigation led by detective John Klute, played by Sutherland.

Klute is hired by Gruneman’s employer to unravel the disappearance, and as he delves deeper into the case, he discovers a complex web of relationships and secrets. Bree, initially a suspect, becomes both a key witness and a potential target as Klute uncovers disturbing truths about Gruneman’s life and those around him.

The film explores themes of identity, loneliness, and power dynamics, with Bree’s character serving as a focal point for these explorations. Her interactions with Klute, characterized by tension and a gradual emotional connection, add depth to the narrative as they navigate the gritty and often unsettling underbelly of New York City.

“Klute” is renowned for its atmospheric cinematography, realistic portrayal of urban life, and strong performances, particularly from Fonda, who won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Bree Daniels. The film’s blend of suspense, psychological depth, and social commentary has cemented its status as a classic of 1970s cinema.

5. Don’t Look Now (1973)

“Don’t Look Now,” released in 1973 and directed by Nicolas Roeg, is a psychological thriller and horror film based on a short story by Daphne du Maurier. The film stars Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie as John and Laura Baxter, a couple grieving the tragic death of their young daughter, Christine, who drowned in their home’s pond.

Set in Venice, Italy, John, an art restorer, accepts a commission to restore an ancient church. As the Baxters try to come to terms with their loss, they encounter two elderly sisters, one of whom claims to be clairvoyant and insists she can see Christine’s spirit. This encounter sets off a series of eerie and inexplicable events that heighten the couple’s sense of unease and draw them into a haunting mystery.

“Don’t Look Now” is notable for its atmospheric cinematography, innovative editing techniques, and a deeply unsettling atmosphere that permeates the narrative. Roeg’s direction masterfully blurs the lines between reality and perception, creating a sense of psychological dread that intensifies as the story progresses.

The film is also remembered for its intimate portrayal of grief and the strained relationship between John and Laura, portrayed with emotional depth by Sutherland and Christie. Their performances, coupled with the film’s evocative imagery and haunting score, contribute to “Don’t Look Now” being regarded as a landmark in horror cinema, known for its psychological complexity and chilling portrayal of loss and supernatural intrigue.

6. The Eagle Has Landed (1976)

“The Eagle Has Landed,” released in 1976 and directed by John Sturges, is a World War II espionage thriller based on the novel by Jack Higgins. The film stars an ensemble cast including Michael Caine, Donald Sutherland, Robert Duvall, and Jenny Agutter.

Set in 1943, the story revolves around a daring German plot to kidnap Winston Churchill, then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, during a brief visit to a small English village. German paratroopers, led by Colonel Kurt Steiner (played by Michael Caine), infiltrate England disguised as Polish paratroopers and prepare for the audacious mission.

Among the German soldiers is Liam Devlin (played by Donald Sutherland), an Irishman and IRA operative who brings his own perspective and skills to the mission. As the plan unfolds, unexpected complications arise, including conflicts among the German soldiers and the discovery of their true identities by the villagers and British authorities.

“The Eagle Has Landed” blends suspense, action, and character drama as it explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the moral ambiguities of war. The film’s intricate plot and intense moments of suspense culminate in a gripping climax that underscores the risks and consequences faced by both the invaders and the villagers caught up in the plot.

Known for its strong performances and realistic portrayal of wartime tensions, “The Eagle Has Landed” remains a classic example of the espionage thriller genre, offering a compelling and thought-provoking narrative 

Conclusion:

In closing our exploration of Donald Sutherland’s early movies, we traverse a landscape rich with diversity, depth, and cinematic brilliance. From the rugged battlefields of “The Dirty Dozen” to the gritty streets of New York in “Klute,” Sutherland’s performances not only entertained but also challenged and inspired.

His ability to seamlessly transition from comedic roles in “MAS*H” and “Kelly’s Heroes” to haunting portrayals in “Don’t Look Now” exemplifies his versatility and commitment to his craft. Each film we explored offered a glimpse into his evolving repertoire, where he navigated complex characters with finesse and authenticity.