A story for the times, a tragedy for a nation, this film is excellent for so many reasons

Rating: 10/10 (25 May 2001)

A date which will live in infamy. I certainly remembered it, and once our school got time out on the day to watch Tora Tora Tora piped through our tv system. When I saw the previews for Pearl Harbor, I was awestruck, yet I was also wary. I wondered if this could reach Tora Tora Tora's level of glory, or well-crafted cinematography and acting. What I saw today proved that today's cinema has just as much to offer. This movie was simply amazing. It shows the backgrounds of the characters which, even though it takes awhile, didn't make me bored. In fact, I did not realize the time that had passed. The scenes were realistic, the acting was emotional, but not overdone. The cinematography was original and flavorful, using techniques which brought the war truly home. And throughout, I had a sense of being there almost, feeling the air, smelling smoke. But then again I have an overactive imagination.
My third cousin died in the battle that brought America into World War II. He was nineteen. When I saw the ships sinking in flames, the men screaming, it sent shivers down my body. Even if there is never a stone memorial to honor him(which there is), this movie will always be a national memorial to his sacrifice, to me.