Darkness of the human soul

Rating: Null/10 (10 May 2003)

War has been a recurring theme in Kubrick's films. They were intertwined in the plot of Doctor Strangelove and was the focus in his 1987 feature, Full Metal Jacket. Here however, war is more based inside the court system as three soldiers are tried for cowardice after retreating on an impossible assault on the fronts of World War I. Kirk Douglas plays their Colonel, who's trying his best to win the case. Only about the first twenty or so minutes of this film show actual combat, it's mostly focused on the trial. Suprisingly, this film runs at one and a half hours, but it still includes everything it needs too. The script, drives the message through hard along with very suspensful lines and mood. The direction by Stanley Kubrick stays focused throughout, always delivering to the full impact. The photography during the battle sequence isn't exceptional, but it works. The set designs are noteworthy, as they show the very detailed trenches of World War I. The performances, most noteably by the lead actor, are amazing. They really drive this film all the way, always giving the viewer a sense of mood. This also happens to be one of the most emotional experiences in film I have ever seen. I never cry, and I didn't cry in this either, but this film is very emotional. Several details really get sink into the brain and stick with you. The overall message of the film doesn't seem to really be all about World War I, but about the bleakness of the human soul and how war makes a big rift in that soul and removes compassion and rationalization. This film doesn't back away and give in to be happy, it's gritty and it's harsh. It's very suspensful, well- crafted, and well made. A bit short, sometimes a bit too repeating, but it's a brilliant film. Stanley Kubrick is truly the visionary of Cinema. 9.5/10