Yanks (1979)

Following in the cinematic footsteps of The Yanks Are Coming (1942), Abroad with Two Yanks (1944) and the small screen series Yanks Go Home (1976-1977) is John Schlesinger’s Yanks (1979). Unlike the previous comedic productions, this R rated flick is a costume drama. The World War II tale follows American soldier Sergeant Matt Dyson (Richard Gere) who discovers romance when stationed in a small English town. Matt hooks up with shop girl Jean Moreton (Lisa Eichhorn), while his comrade Captain Dan (William Devane) sets his sights on an upper crust woman named Helen (Vanessa Redgrave). Although the locals aren’t too pleased to see the Americans enjoying themselves, they give the US forces a break. After all, they’re about to risk their lives to defend Europe. In fact, the Yanks head off to Southern England to prepare for D-Day by the end of the story. Will they find glory on the battlefield? Will they ever return to reunite with the British birds they’ve fallen for? And will we get to see some dudity? Unfortunately, Mr. Devane is stingy when it comes to exposing his skin. At least, Mr. Gere appears to be naked during a sex scene wherein he flashes his bare back. There’s also a more revealing group shower scene. But due to some strategic camera angles, all we get to see are Richard’s muscular guns and wet pecs. Luckily, there are a bunch of nude dudes in the background who will make the members on audience members stand up and salute!