It was excellent, but not perfect.

Rating: 8/10 (30 July 1998)

The writing and the story were weak at times. The reason given for why the military would risk the lives of eight soldiers to save one was glossed over. Technically, the movie could not have been any better. The acting was superb all around. Spielberg's direction is to be admired. The cinematography is gorgeous in an eerie way. Unfortunately Spielberg bookended the film with two scenes that were unnecessary and, for me, took away from the impact of the film. But this movie was not about its story, it was about a war. The plot was a vehicle to illustrate the war. And in that respect, the movie successfully completes its purpose.