[4] Originally intended as a musical, it was filmed as a straight comedy-drama, directed by John Ford and released by 20th Century Fox on August 22, 1952, in the U.S.

The screenplay was written by Phoebe and Henry Ephron, and stars James Cagney and Dan Dailey as US Marines in World War I.

However, when the sergeant arrives, it is Quirt, Captain Flagg's longtime rival, and their rivalry re-ignites.

When Flagg returns, he is approached by Charmaine's father, Whiskey Pete, who expresses concern over his daughter's relationship with Quirt.

While setting up Quirt's wedding, Flagg is approached by another of the new arrivals, Private Lewisohn, who wants to marry Nicole Bouchard, a local he has known for eight days.

Right after he leaves for the base hospital in the village, Lewisohn brings a German lieutenant he has captured to Flagg.

As Flagg leads his Marines deeper into enemy territory, Quirt begins to woo Charmaine.

Dan Dailey had signed to star and James Cagney was being sought to play the other leading role.

[13] At the end of that month John Ford signed to direct and the title changed from Charmaine back to What Price Glory.

However, by the time he learned that Ford had decided to shoot it as a straight film, it was too late for him to back out.

[16] Marisa Pavan, the twin sister of Pier Angeli made her screen debut in this film as Nicole Bouchard.

In 1929 and 1931, Walsh directed Lowe and McLaglen in the same roles in two sequels, titled The Cock-Eyed World and Women of All Nations, respectively.