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Poster for Coming Out Under Fire

Coming Out Under Fire

Seen it?

1994 | 72 min | Documentary, War

Saturday Specialearly rating

Why it’s a Saturday Special

Critics loved it (91% on Rotten Tomatoes), despite almost no lasting buzz. A strong pick for the weekend.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Aimed squarely at anyone interested in what war does to people and the curious. It puts you in the middle of the fighting, and doesn't let you forget the cost. Liked They Shall Not Grow Old or For Sama? This is a good next one.
The mood
Intense, eye-opening.
The pace
Moves through the story clearly, at 1 hr 12 min. Done before bedtime.
What might put you off
Skip it if you want made-up drama tonight.

A historical account of military policy regarding homosexuality during World War II. The documentary includes interviews with several homosexual WWII veterans.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsVery strong

    91% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesNot counted

    Not measured yet: not enough ratings

  • AwardsBelow par

    2 wins and 0 nominations from smaller awards and festivals

  • Reach & staying powerBelow par

    Streaming release that reached a small audience so far; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactWeak

    About 1K people sought it out in the past year

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Cast & crew

Directed by Arthur Dong

  • Salome JensNarrator (voice)
  • Phillis AbrySelf - Radio Technician, Women's Army Corps
  • David BarrettSelf - Storekeeper, U.S. Navy
  • Sarah DavisSelf - Aviation Machinist Mate, WAVES
  • Herbert GreenspanSelf - Psychiatrist, U.S. Navy (as Dr. Herbert Greenspan)
  • Bruce LeeSelf - Intelligence Clerk, U.S. Army Air Corps
  • Marvin LiebmanSelf - Special Services, U.S. Army Air Corps
  • Stuart LoomisSelf - Psychological Assistant, U.S. Army
  • Tom ReddySelf - Special Services, U.S. Marine Corps
  • Alan BergreenAdditional Voice (voice)