John Wayne "appalled" his co-star on the set of a World War 2 classic, which almost saw the violent deaths of crew members.

Film trailer for Flying Leathernecks with John Wayne

Back in 1951, John Wayne starred in the World War 2 action movie Flying Leathernecks, which celebrates its 73rd anniversary this week.

Bankrolled by billionaire pilot Howard Hughes, the eccentric businessman decided to film the picture in Technicolour, using the colour wartime combat footage. Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT

The film follows the adventures of the US Marine Corps aviators who had long had the nickname leathernecks, as the Marines would originally wear leather stock around their necks.

Allegedly, director Nicholas Ray chose Robert Ryan to star opposite Duke as he’d been a boxer in col

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