A Great Piece of Filmaking.

Rating: 9/10 (4 November 2005)

Ever since I saw the previews for this movie I had high hopes for it. American Beauty, one of Mendez's earlier films, was one of my favorites; and I was thrilled when I saw a trailer for a drama/war movie starring Jake Gyllenhaal (Donnie Darko, Bubble Boy) ; whom I think is fantastic. This movie ended up being very good. The acting was top-notch (especially Jamie Fox's character), the soundtrack was good (Nirvana, T-Rex), and the cinematography was excellent. The only reason that I wouldn't give it a ten would be for the ending. I'm not saying it was bad, in fact it was good. But it could have ended on a higher note and with more meaning. The director did a great job of getting you involved with the characters; and showed the terrors of war without being extra gory or violent. This movie is definitely not pro-war. On top of the drama and war, there are many comedic moments in this film. I left the theater deeply moved; this film is very emotional and will make you a better person. I would recommend this drama/comedy/war masterpiece to everybody; that is everybody who would like to be part of a wonderful film.