Brilliant

Rating: 10/10 (2 August 1998)

"Saving Private Ryan" is one of the best war films ever made simply because of its refusal to leave anything to the imagination. Nothing in this film is ambiguous, supported by vehement images of dismembering and dying. Whereas water drops hit the camera lens in another movie, blood splatters all over it in this one. The first 24 minutes are shot confusingly, using shaky, hand-held camera motion, ground level angle shots, numerous soldiers' POVS, as well as expert cinematography, creating a "news-reel" footage feel, gritty and fast. The war is chaotic and anything but fun.
Dialogue in this movie is succint and to the point. Most of the characters exhibit their emotions merely by staring, emaciated, into the camera. Spielberg has created a graphic, candid image of war, something unparalled but highly controversial. Many people argue that some things should be left lightly without gratuity. To get the poignant purpose across, as well as many of the themes, however, Spielberg must let the audience identify with the characters, their fears and their insanity. The human stories are bettered by the horrific images. When they lose it, we don't question them. I don't question Spielberg either for taking a great story and providing it with vivid visuals.