Give 'Em Hell, Harry! is a filmed version of James J. Whitmore's triumphant performance as Harry Truman in a one-man play. Over the course of the film, Whitmore's Truman recalls many of his personal and professional triumphs and tragedies, uncannily capturing the essence of the President with humor and genuine emotion. Whitmore was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his startlingly effective performance.