The challenge of post-war life

Rating: 9/10 (30 May 2010)

It is hard to sum up a movie with as much character, human interest and compassion as this one, which deals with the transition from war to peace by three men who return home to their loved ones and their former lives after World War II. Sometimes called the "greatest generation", the men and women in the movie are a sampling of that demographic who are now passing into history. This movie leaves you with a great sense of satisfaction, not laughs or escapism but takes life as it was for many families and handles it with honesty and intelligence.
To start with, the main character performed by Frederick March tries to balance his conscience and responsibilities in a time when change meant moral dilemmas that were not easy to resolve, whether in personal or professional lives. His steadfast wife is Myrna Loy, who is understanding and sometimes critical but fully engaged in his life.
All three men in this movie and their loved ones were faced with challenges. In each case, they forced themselves or one another to face up to the task. These involved physical disability, personal relationships, unemployment, and making the transition from the battlefield to the workplace.
This movie has humour and fun as well as serious issues. Frederick March's character sets the tone. He doesn't moralize or patronize. He plunges into the fray...advising, chastising, getting angry, laughing or boozing. The other men respect him and he helps bring out the best in them. Dana Andrews, as the war hero whose return to civilian and personal life was almost humiliating, was excellent in his role as was Harold Russell (a non-professional actor) who went from big man in town to double amputee. Theresa Wright and Cathy O'Donnell played the women who salvaged their self-esteem.
When all is said and done, these are flawed but good men whose courage is never in doubt. They had the good fortune to find strong women to lean on. With their courage and determination, they are able to move on in their lives, however changed it might be. To me this will always be a great movie. Despite changed times, the movie still has much to say.