Great portrayal of war.

Rating: 9/10 (19 August 1998)

Saving Private Ryan is the greatest portrayal of war on film that I have ever seen, mainly because it works like a documentary during the battle scenes. It was as close to the action as possible for the viewer, and for that, it is great. Everyone should see it just to experience it.
However, I do have some complaints. There are several instances that were far too manipulative on Spielberg's part. The little girl and her family? The German soldier/prisoner incident? The aging veteran? All very questionable and probably not necessary. The sheer content of the picture was moving enough, why elaborate on other things of much lighter substance ?
This deserves a nomination for best picture, but if The Thin Red Line lives up to expectations, I'd hesitate to give it a win. Unforgettable all the same though.