For Whom the Bell Tolls Film Turns 80

For Whom the Bell Tolls is an epic war film based on the 1940 novel of the same name by American literature great Ernest Hemingway. Directed by Sam Wood, who at that point had already helmed hits like A Night at the Opera and Kitty Foyle, the movie starred Hollywood icons Gary Cooper and Ingrid Bergman. The enduring classic was released 80 years ago on July 14, 1943.

The film follows Robert Jordan (Cooper) an American who travels to Spain to join guerilla forces that are fighting dictator Francisco Franco. While he’s tasked with blowing up a bridge in enemy territory, Robert meets María (Bergman) a partisan local woman and the two fall for each other. As Robert and María get closer, he starts to question not only his mission, but also his political opinions and his decision to join a foreign war.

For Whom the Bell Tolls was a hit with audiences and critics alike, becoming the second highest grossing film of 1943. It was nominated for nine Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Actress, and took home the Best Supporting Actress award for Katina Paxinou.