Even with very little explanation, "Dr. Strangelove" is a great movie.

Rating: 10/10 (14 March 2004)

Love songs between planes and a translation of "Merkwurdichiebe" seem a little strange for a movie's theme. By the title, one should expect such a thing. "Dr. Strangelove or: How I Stopped Worrying and Learned to Love the Bomb" is not only a mouthful, it's an excellent movie. Although in some cases, it should be overviewed and discussed before seen. Released in 1964, the film reflects the worries and mood of the time surrounding it, but twisting those thoughts with humorous ventures and fictional characters.
Based on Peter George's novel, it scratches at a loss of hope, but somehow is cheerful. Since it was based around such heavy subjects, it would make more sense if the movie itself was somber and full of events. In truth the movie is surrounded by only a few sets and can literally make the viewer laugh out loud. It is the smaller things, such as: a "keep off the grass" sign at a military base while shooting is going on, or the ongoing talk about bodily fluids leading to the decision to abstain from sex, that make the movie so hilarious.
It takes talent to take a subject like nuclear warfare and put a spin on it, using names like King Kong and Jack D. Ripper contributed to the affect. The contrast between the music and pictures, using one main instrumental song throughout the entire film gave a sense of a continuous suspense that was crucial to the feel of the movie. This is a film that needs to be seen by anyone who would have an open mind to its sense of humor, and with that open mind it's one of the best movies ever made.