Tell It to the Marines (1926 film)

Tell It to the Marines is a 1926 American silent romantic drama film directed by George Hill and starring Lon Chaney, William Haines, and Eleanor Boardman. Produced by Cosmopolitan Productions and distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), the film is noted for its patriotic theme and focus on the United States Marine Corps.

The film's plot centers around Sergeant O'Hara (Chaney), a tough but dedicated Marine drill instructor who takes a raw recruit named Private William "Bill" Tracy (Haines) under his wing. Tracy's initial arrogance and lack of discipline create friction with O'Hara, but through rigorous training and shared experiences, they develop a mutual respect. Complicating matters is the romantic interest that both men develop for Norma Dale (Boardman), the daughter of a Marine officer.

Tell It to the Marines was a significant box office success for MGM. Its popularity can be attributed to its appealing story, its star-studded cast, and its portrayal of the Marine Corps as a symbol of American strength and honor. The film also benefited from the cooperation of the Marine Corps, which provided technical assistance and allowed filming to take place at Marine bases. The film is considered an important example of patriotic filmmaking during the silent era and is notable for its portrayal of Marine Corps training and camaraderie.