Probably the greatest film on the return of servicemen after war ever!

Rating: 10/10 (27 December 2004)

Humane, understated, believable and rare. These are just some of the thoughts that come to mind after watching "Best Years...".
I think it is the mix of characters and the believability of their lives which makes for such a great film.
The events surrounding the return of the servicemen are not dwelled upon. What is very unusual, and what makes the film truly great, is the vision of the future that each of the main characters has. The world, following WWII, has changed them and notwithstanding physical and emotional traumas, it has changed them for the better. They are men united by service to a great cause, a just cause and the right cause. Having given so much of themselves they wish to see a better world on their return after victory.
Particularly at this time in 2004 that message resonates loud and clear to me. Another just war is taking place and the US and UK are again present, together, in the service of freedom and democracy. Let us hope that when victory is achieved that the world will also be changed for the better.
For me, Fredric March's portrayal of "Sarge" is so right that it should be considered among the great movie portrayals of all time!
All in all a marvellous film, that deserves to be seen again and again.