Oh, War... Such a Silly Thing

Rating: 8/10 (22 February 2010)

A group of British POWs is ordered by the Japanese to build a bridge over the River Kwai. While at first trying to stall, they eventually go along with the plan and take pride in their work. But what they don't know is that an American POW who was released from the camp has met up with British commandos who are determined to destroy the bridge.
What we have here is the serious Nicholson (Alec Guinness) on one side against the slacker Shears (William Holden). While both working for the same side (the Allies) they are given two very opposed objectives. And only one of them can succeed... but who will it be? While not intentionally humorous, the film had something of a dark comedy aspect for me. Shears with his laid-back attitude, choosing to indulge woman and drink on the beach, and no love of authority, was a likable anti-hero. And the film as a whole had a message that screamed: war is pointless, banal and at times utterly mad. We the audience were watching collective, organized insanity.
If you don't mind war dramas and films almost three hours in length, this one is a must-see. Nominated for almost every Oscar of any importance, and winning many of them... really, to go through life without seeing this would be unforgivable. I especially recommend it if you and your little sister are having a sleepover in a tent in the backyard.