Biloxi Blues is a 1988 American comedy-drama film directed by Mike Nichols. The film is based on a semi-autobiographical play by Neil Simon. The story follows Eugene Morris Jerome (Matthew Broderick), a Jewish kid from Brooklyn, who is drafted into the US Army near the end of World War II. He is sent to Biloxi, Mississippi for basic training, where he meets a diverse group of soldiers from all across the country.
One of Eugene's biggest challenges is dealing with his drill sergeant, Merwin J. Toomey (Christopher Walken), who is mentally unstable and mercilessly picks on his recruits. Eugene tries to keep a low profile and focus on his training, but he and his fellow soldiers are constantly tested by Toomey's brutal tactics.
In addition to the training, Eugene also tries to navigate his first romantic relationship with a local girl, Rowena (Penelope Ann Miller), who works at a local dance hall. Eugene's interactions with Rowena and his fellow soldiers highlight the cultural differences and challenges faced by young men during wartime.
Through his experiences in Biloxi, Eugene grows up and learns important life lessons about love, friendship, and the true meaning of bravery. Biloxi Blues is a heartwarming and sometimes humorous coming-of-age story that captures the spirit of young soldiers during World War II.