Best war (or antiwar) movie ever

Rating: 10/10 (22 June 2005)

If anybody, after Apocalypses Now and Saving Private Ryan or even worse, the very little but depressing information we are getting about the Iraq work, still thinks that war is an adventure, I recommend him (or her) to pick up a gun and take the first plane, boat or car to go there and send back one of the thousand soldiers that do not to want to be there any more. As I sure many war supporters will not do that, just because supporting the war with a car sticker and from our comfortable home is, well, just comfortable; at least spend two and a half ours to see one of the most touching and realistic war movie ever made.
The most important, and sad thing is that this movie is from South Korea, a country that lived a hard civil war and they are still fearing it. The sad part, is because American audiences hate to read subtitles, but if your mind needs more than Hollywood FX and repetitive shallow stories; then this movie will touch you very very deep.
This is the story of two low class brothers, the elder overprotecting the youngest, recruited (against their will) in the 1950's Korean War. In order to get this brother out of danger, the older must became a con-decorated hero (or probably a con-decorated dead hero), so he embarks in any suicidal mission or risk situation possible.
As he became famous, his personality changes and becomes more a beast than a human being, killing every enemy in front of him (armed or not). The movie carries us very realistic on the destruction of war (the carnage is but as enormous), but clearly state that the real damage occurs inside these poor people minds. We see how they are used (and abused) on a purely political fight and constantly betrayed but their own governments and superiors.
The last act of the movie, after and unexpected twist, is somehow unnecessary and predictable, but the immense acting skills of the two leads make for a very touching ending.
In terms of production values and script, TAEGUKGI (Brotherhood at war) competes and surpasses many Hollywood productions even Spielber's SPR.
Advice; rent the movie or buy the DVD but DO NOT MISS IT.