Suicide Battalion

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Suicide Battalion is a 1958 American World War II film directed by Edward L. Cahn. It stars Mike Connors, John Ashley (who acted while on leave from the U.S. Army), Russ Bender, Bing Russell, Walter Maslow, and Robert Tetrick. The story was created by Lou Rusoff, who also produced the film. Executive producers were Samuel Z. Arkoff and James H. Nicholson. Zuma Productions made the movie, and American International Pictures released it in the United States while Anglo-Amalgamated handled the UK release. The film premiered on February 28, 1958, runs 79 minutes, is in English, and had an estimated budget of about $100,000.

The plot takes place in the Philippines during World War II. A group of American soldiers is recruited for a dangerous mission to destroy an enemy base and keep important documents out of Japanese hands. The story is reportedly inspired by the capture of General William Dean during the Korean War.

Development history: Suicide Battalion was first announced in 1955 under the working title Hell Raiders, with various actors and production plans changing over time. Filming began on November 12, 1957. John Ashley received an early release from his Army duties to act in the film and later became known for work connected to Philippine cinema.

Reception and legacy: Variety called the film well produced. The Los Angeles Times criticized it for weak execution and clichés. Actress Jackie Joseph called it a “B-minus war movie.” In 1968, it was remade for television by Larry Buchanan as Hell Raiders, which was the film’s original working title. The movie was released as a double feature with Jet Attack.