A perfect structure and a deep sense of humanity combine to make this one of history's greatest films.

Rating: 10/10 (5 September 2001)

Made on the eve of WWII, La Grande Illusion is Renoir's famous plea for humanity and peace. The perfectly balanced structure of the story allows for a deeper experience with each successive viewing. Although the action and styles on its surface are dated after 60+ years, the themes put forth in its subtext are universal: madness of war, cultural clash, class distinction, the myth of nationalism, bravery under extreme duress, etc. Renoir's austere realism puts him at odds with most of modern cinema. He remains one of cinema's few geniuses - a true artist, as opposed to the technical wizards and sentimentalist storytellers of today. La Grande Illusion stands - with Rules of the Game - as one of his 2 masterpieces. Watch and learn. And watch again.