Can be an eye opener

Rating: Null/10 (16 February 2004)

Being still a teenager, I realize that I am still relatively young and may not fully comprehend the true impact of war, if ever. I know that many have criticized this movie for not truly giving the sense of war or whatnot.
In my view, this was not the purpose of the movie. Instead, I believe that this movie was made as a tribute for those lives lost in the war and to give the audience a more graphic taste of the battlefield. The viewer may only begin to get a sense of the horror felt by those involved, but I hope that most will never have to know such feelings.
Movie-wise, its terrific. Superb acting, exciting and twisting plot, emotional moments, and edge-of-your-seat action. I came away speechless with a better view of the true loss of war.
While the feelings conveyed are not as realistic as some would like, this movie is also not exactly a light-hearted take on war. I feel that Hollywood has a responsibility to accurately reproduce the historical subject being represented to the best of their ability, and this is achieved. The costumes, special effects, sounds, and sets are virtually genuine.
The bottom line: While unable to truly portray the experience of war, the viewer still comes away feeling solemn and respectful with a true sense of loss for those involved. The excellent production values are only a bonus.