Artistically impressive, reality checking needed

Rating: 6/10 (14 March 2020)

The cinematography and general artistry were impressive and no doubt majorly influenced such positive reviews. I was a little disappointed with the two leads' acting. It seemed overcooked quite often, almost slapstick, which didn't resonate with the film's otherwise ultrarealistic aspirations. A few other reality checks would also have improved the believability index. Examples: Soldiers have always been trained never to let go of their weapon, but this happened too easily. Also leaving his helmet behind even as ordinance and danger intensified. Beautiful and purposeful as the forest a capella ballad scene is, would an exhausted stumbling combatant manage to infiltrate a military division at the front line, unnoticed much less unchecked, sit down and enjoy the stirring performance as portrayed? To tweak these issues would have increased engagement, without compromising essential artistic licence. The tone would be more smoothly maintained and enhanced. Maybe the passing off WWI survivors has left a gap in the veteran consultancy industry.