The Line Runs Thin.

Rating: 9/10 (20 April 2016)

The Thin Red Line (1998): Dir: Terrence Malick / Cast: Sean Penn, Nick Nolte, Jim Caviezel, John Cusack, Woody Harrelson: It has been two decades since Terrence Malick directed his last film Days of Heaven and his return is welcome. What the title represents is beyond me but it involves the war between the Americans and the Japanese. Each soldier carries their own personal war and how it has affected them and they are played by among the biggest casting call in recent history. Malick went all out and received top draws in the talent field. There are many climaxes and subplots that render each performer their personal slot within the film. Sean Penn is superb in his warnings to a fellow soldier about attitude. Nick Nolte is excellent as his attempts to look out for the welfare of his men. Jim Caviezel steals scenes as a dare devil soldier who ends up a decoy and finds himself within a fatal position where it could spell the end. John Cusack is featured as a soldier trying to get water for the troops. This is a tremendous cast with everyone getting their moment while making this a rare ensemble war film. While the film isn't quite up there with Apocalypse Now, it is certainly a worthy candidate for a double billing. Malick's return is highlighted with explosive action that ranks all too convincing in its payoff. It is a tour of the dark depths of despair and casualty. Score: 9 / 10