A Remarkably Beautiful Film

Rating: Null/10 (28 October 1999)

I have seen this film countless times over the past 12 years; no film that I have seen since and--I believe--no film I that I see in the future will ever take its place as my all-time favorite. It's not just the realistic portrayal of life for returning WWII veterans that make this film the incredible experience that it is, but also its depiction of love, family life, heartache, altruism, and human decency. All of the actors, even the big stars, were extremely adept at portraying ordinary people dealing with extraordinary circumstances.
The scene where Myrna Loy's character explains, in front of her husband, the realities of marriage to her daughter is truly inspired and provides such powerful insight into these characters as individuals and as a family. I've yet to see another film from that time period that dares to cover that territory in such a realistic manner.
Other favorite scenes: when Homer first returns home and his family and his girl are so overjoyed to see him that they don't even notice his missing hands, and then his mother speaks for all of them with her stifled sob once they finally notice. The scene where Fred, embittered by his job situation and his failed marriage, urges Homer to rush home and propose to Wilma immediately. He is able to unselfishly encourage Homer to see the good in his life while his own is in shambles. There are many other amazingly touching scenes--these are just a few.
If you haven't seen this film, I urge you to do so. I myself have no experience, nor do any of my immediate family members, with war and combat, yet I can't help but feel that The Best Years of Our Lives portrays the experience of coming home from war completely realistically, and with deep understanding and grace.
Oh, and did I mention the score? Absolutely perfect and beautiful. And it's available on CD!