Down Periscope

The movie centers on Lieutenant Commander Tom Dodge, a maverick officer who has long aspired to command a nuclear submarine. His nemesis, Admiral Graham, attempts to sabotage Dodge by assigning him to the Stingray, a decrepit diesel sub far removed from the sleek nuclear vessels Dodge desires. Dodge's crew is similarly unconventional, made up of misfits whose mistakes and quirks fuel the film's comedic tension.

Down Periscope features a strong ensemble cast including Lauren Holly, Rob Schneider, Harry Dean Stanton, Bruce Dern, William H. Macy, and Rip Torn. The film's humor arises from the clash between Dodge’s rebellious nature and the Navy’s rigid hierarchy. Director David S. Ward, known for blending comedy with action, crafts a narrative that mixes a comedy of errors with themes of comradeship and perseverance.

The production was handled by 20th Century Fox, and the film runs just over 90 minutes. It taps into familiar naval tropes like mutiny and war games, using them as a backdrop for character-driven comedy. The film has maintained a modest fan base among military comedy enthusiasts, particularly for its portrayal of an unconventional crew taking on a high-stakes war game.

Collectors can find Down Periscope on both VHS and DVD formats. These releases appeal to collectors interested in 1990s comedy films or naval-themed movies. The film’s presence on physical media preserves its place in the era’s comedy landscape and offers a chance to revisit the performances of a notable cast in a lighthearted military setting.