Mendes scores again

Rating: 7/10 (1 November 2005)

Sam Mendes is going to be one of the most important filmmakers of the 21st century. His mastery of both the technical and emotional aspects of film will long be remembered. Such is the case with "Jarhead." Telling the tale of a young man, Jake Gyllenhall, in the role that will define him as a star, starting in the Marines during the Gulf War. The opening is familiar with "Full Metal Jacket" but soon evolves into it's own film. To avoid plot spoilers, I will avoid plot summary. The acting in this film is quite good, but has some shaky secondary characters. As I said, Jake is great, and it's quite shocking how large he is. He portrays rage, fear, and sadness all within one spectacular scene. Peter Sarsgaard is subtle as ever and is also able to portray numerous emotions that really connect with the audience. In one scene at the end of the film, you are shocked and feel for him as he let's it all out. Jamie Foxx is essentially the Lee Armey of this film, he's the rough tough, and often hilarious staff Sergeant who has some real depth but is wisely kept under wraps as to not distract from the essential story. The cinematography in this film is probably the most beautiful I have seen in a war film. While films like "Saving Private Ryan" use the shaky cam, "Jarhead" does as well, but Mendes is able to blend shaky cam with some truly magnificent shots. Towards the end, the oil fields begin to burn, and I have never seen something so tragically gorgeous. In general, the film is not only a must-see for war film fans, but fans of emotional valor and depth. Highly recommended, watch this one for Oscar season.