One of my favorite bits in "Them" is the scene with Olin Howlin in the alcoholic ward when he "sings" "Make me a sargeant and give me the booze". And his pleading "Take me with you" at the end. Good for him. One of the best character people of the thirties and forties.
It should be noted that Olin Howlin, sometimes billed as Howland, also is the Blob's first victim in the original "The Blob", released four years after "Them!". He had a remarkable career, including a small role in "Gone with the Wind", but doesn't seem to be very recognizable to viewers.
When I was doing research for a book of filmographies I've been working on for several years, I did a file on Howlin/Howland and was astonished to see that his career began in 1918 and ended in 1959. Yet, he remains relatively unknown, rather like other characters actors such as Clara Blandick, Matt Clark, Bingo O'Malley and Rutanya Alda.
At least Mr. Howlin left indelible impressions with two sci fi roles. He showed what could be done with just a little time on the screen.
~~MystMoonstruck~~
"Make me a sergeant! Give me the booze!" "Please! My nerves!"'''''''
Also had a nice role in one of my favorite John Wayne films: "Angel And The Badman".
"I'm not reckless . . . I'm skillful!"