Ensign Pulver​

An American comedy-drama film from 1964, directed in the USA by Joshua Logan, serves as a sequel to the 1955 film "Mister Roberts" and is based on the play by Thomas Heggen. Set in 1945 aboard the U.S. Navy cargo ship "Reluctant," anchored near a tropical island in the Pacific Ocean, the story follows the tyrannical Captain Morton (Burl Ives), who demands strict discipline from his crew despite their distance from the front lines. Ensign Frank Pulver (Robert Walker Jr.), previously known for his lack of initiative, decides to take action by playing a prank on the captain, resulting in both being swept overboard during a storm. They end up on an island where they encounter a group of shipwrecked nurses, local inhabitants, and face the urgent need for an appendectomy on the captain. Pulver, overcoming his fears, performs the operation under the guidance of the ship's doctor (Walter Matthau) via radio. The film explores themes of leadership, responsibility, and personal growth, showcasing Pulver's transformation from a carefree officer to a decisive leader. The cast also includes Tommy Sands, Millie Perkins, Larry Hagman, Kay Medford, Peter Marshall, Jack Nicholson, Richard Gautier, George Lindsey, James Farentino, and James Coco.​