Incredibly Moving Look at Three Men Returning From War

Rating: 9/10 (20 July 2002)

Post-Vietnam, most of us are used to movies that tell about the problems that face vets once they return home. In fact, movies of this time have become commonplace for Vietnam. But the original one of these, and the best, is a World War II one. It is long, and complex, combining the stories of three men. But, in the end, despite its large scale story, it provides a personal, intimate look at each of there lives.
Fred Derry (Dana Andrews) is a young captain who returns to find that his talents as a bombardier are of no use to him back home, and that his marriage now isn't what it used to be. Al Stephenson (Frederic March) returns to a family and a job, but now has a cynical attitude towards all of it. Homer Parrish (Harold Russell) lost his hands during the war. While his family is ready to accept it, he is not.
The movie is an incredibly fascinating, heartfelt look at three men and their struggles to return to their normal lives. The characters each have their unique problems, and the audience can sympathize with every one of them, as well as with many of the family member who must also deal with their struggles.
Few movies have been made that are as moving as this one. It never falls to the level of being manipulative or overwrought. It simply tells the stories as they are and lets the viewer fall into it. A superb film, the best of its kind.
**** out of ****