A New Standard

Rating: 9/10 (24 October 2000)

It would be easy to criticize a war film produced with such zeal for recognition by one of Hollywood's most talented and ambitious directors. It would be satisfying to downplay the significance of a film (like Star Wars) that is wildly popular.
But the reality is that Saving Private Ryan, like Star Wars, is an inspired film created by a director at the height of his abilities. It is both a love letter to The Greatest Generation, and a warning to us younger folk that war is indeed hell.
The famous opening battle scene probably changed more minds about the utility and glamor of warfare, than all of Baez's and Dylan's protest songs combined.
Speilberg's bravery in bringing such a scene to the popular audience has rightly been rewarded by placing this film in in the pantheon of the best films of all time.
Lets hope that this film sets a new standard for the war film genre. Lets take the glamor out of war and leave it where it belongs, like on a beach where the only thing being blown up is an air mattress.