I've always considered myself a fan of Speilberg....

Rating: 10/10 (9 August 1998)

I've always considered myself a fan of Speilberg. He has consistently turned out fine, entertaining work. As a serious filmmaker he excels. As a director of slick entertainments, he also excels. Unlike many who believe Schindlers List has been his masterpiece, I feel ET was a greater acheivement. As good as Schindlers List was (and it was very, very good), its impact seemed at times forced. All this aside, nothing could prepare me for Saving Private Ryan. The film is not the work of a great director, it is the work of a world-class artist. It is stunning. It is devastating. It works where it should not work. It works where you do not want it to work. It is a simple war film. It is an intellectual challenge. It is cold and distant. It is raw and emotional. I have never seen or experienced anything quite like it before. The only film I can remember reacting to in such a way is Pasolinis great (and repugnant) film Salo. Both are kicks in the gut. Both (and I'm sure there are not many admirers of Salo out there) are cries from the depths that eventually by their ends not only expose human evils, but also depict hope and dignity. I cannot say enough for Saving Private Ryan. All I can say is experience it for yourself.