Not exactly Oscar bound, but Satisfactory

Rating: 7/10 (28 May 2001)

The first thing I have to say is this movie isn't as bleak as all the `respected' critics make it sound. From the reviews I've read, they make it sound like Pearl Harbor is the worst movie this side of `Dude, Where's My Car?' It's not going to win `Best Picture,' but it's entertaining nonetheless.
There are several things that prevent this movie from being great. It's filled with cheesy lines (`I think World War II just started!') and pseudo-inspirational quotes (`I'm not anxious to day, sir, just anxious to matter.'). The worst thing about this film is probably the transition between the Ben-Kate-Josh love triangle and the Japanese and Military Officials. It often felt like I was watching two different and unrelated movies.
The best thing about this movie is probably the superior special effects once the attack starts. The first half of the film is slow at times and I wondered when the bombing was going to start, but at the same time that sort of helped illustrate how unexpected the attack was and how unprepared the Navy was. Once it starts, you get a real sense what it was like and how devastating the attack on Pearl Harbor was.
As for the cast, there's not shortage of attractive young people. Most of the secondary characters are an interesting and funny supporting cast. I have seen Ben Affleck act better, and his character Rafe is rather cardboard, but Josh Hartnett plays the younger and less confident Danny very well and gives him a little depth. Kate Beckinsale manages to rise above her limited material, and shows promise for future roles.
*Warning: Female Gushing Ahead!* I find it funny that when you look at the voter breakdown, Females rated this film an average of two stars higher than males. You may ask why, and the reason is Josh Hartnett. This guy is a good actor, not to mention gorgeous and super sexy, and I came out of the theater thinking, `I must see every Josh Hartnett movie EVER.' (Which is like 3). Ladies, you will not be disappointed if you see this movie. *End Female Gushing!*
It will probably have to settle for a couple MTV Movie Awards nominations, but it will entertain you. I've seen my share of bad movies, and this isn't a bad movie. Like most movie, you can't read too much into it. Just sit back, don't scoff too much at the cheesy lines and enjoy the eye candy. I give it 7 out of 10