A riveting classic about the realities of post-WWII life for returning Vets.

Rating: 10/10 (19 June 2001)

This William Wyler classic shows the different problems many World War II veterans had adjusting back to civilian life. Wyler is, arguably, the greatest director ever. He could always get the most out of an actor. This case is no different. Look at Harold Russell, who plays Homer Parrish. Not an actor, but a WWII veteran amputee, Russell went on to win The Best Supporting Actor Oscar and also a special oscar for instilling pride in our service branches. He really pulled it off as Homer. Frederic March was also superb(Oscar winner, Best Actor) as Al Stevens, who comes back to a wife and two kids that have grown up considerably in the last four years. He doesn't recognize them. He also has indelible philosophical differences with his employers, realizing he has changed as well. The key to the picture has to be Fred Derry, played by Dana Andrews. His life probably touches on most people who watch this movie. These three men who fly back home together because they come from the same hometown. Because of that trip, their lives are intertwined forever. There are also a few emotional scenes that rank with the best ever filmed, in my opinion. Your not watching a movie when you view "The Best Years of Our Lives." You are watching life.