The Great Santini (1979)

Robert Duvall played one of his most memorable roles in The Great Santini -- the nom de guerre of legendary fighter pilot Lt. Col. Bull Meechum, warrior of the skies, possessor of the Right Stuff, tough-as-nails, man's man and leader of men, center of attention, force of nature, life of the party -- the "Chow down, hogs!" scene is hilarious -- and totally emotionally incommunicado with himself, his wife, and his children. As he once more relocates his family, this time accepting a post at the Citadel in stately South Carolina, Blythe Danner is the gracious southern woman, military wife, and rock of the family; Michael O'Keefe is his son, turning 18 and coming into his own; and his daughter ("Sportsfan") is all but invisible to him. Duvall cannot accept the day his son first beats him at hoops, practicing through the night to hone his athletic edge. Moreover, as a warrior entering peacetime (during the JFK administration) and approaching retirement, Duvall has been so accustomed to living life "on the cutting edge" -- what happens if the sword ever slips? 4 stars.