A viewer's update...

Rating: Null/10 (9 August 1998)

Well, it has been a week since I saw this movie, and six days since I posted my last comment on it (see August 2nd). And, to tell the truth, not a whole lot has changed in the impact this film has had.
Certainly, the images have started to fade, and I can't remember every single nuance and camera angle any more. The names of the characters have all but faded from my brain. Much of the movie has gone the way of movies in the past -- gone to make way for the every day hum-drum of life.
However, there is one thing that hasn't faded -- the distinct feeling of respect for life, and perhaps even a newfound appreciation for it. This movie is powerful. I'm not saying that as someone who gets easily moved by movies but as someone who watched this epic film, and hasn't been quite the same since.
I can no longer take life for granted. I attempted to watch "Volcano" the other day, and couldn't finish it because the death scenes disgusted me -- they seemed too contrived for ratings -- and these are the same scenes that I had no problem with not too long ago.
For those who don't believe that this movie is important, or think that it too is contrived: you're the reason this film was made, and the reason that others gave their lives.
"I may not agree with your opinion, but will defend with my life your right to have it"
Anyway, I thought it would be nice for someone more than two days removed from this film to show that, if you allow yourself to take more from this film than "war is hell", it will affect you for some time to come.
-CR