A Movie Marvel.

Rating: 10/10 (12 November 2013)

Terrence Malick's adaptation of James Jones' autobiographical 1962 novel, focusing on the conflict at Guadalcanal during the second World War, 'The Thin Red Line' is A Movie Marvel. An Outstanding War Film, that boasts a stellar cast & mind-bending direction by the under-rated genius.
'The Thin Red Line' is a fictionalized version of the Battle of Mount Austen, which was part of the Guadalcanal Campaign in the Pacific Theater of World War II. It portrays soldiers of C Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
'The Thin Red Line' is about human-spirit & patriotism. Its also spiritual, meaningful & insightful. The Protagonist, played by Jim Caviezel, is in search for answers. His question is simple: If we can love, why is there war? Why is there injustice? Why is there division? A haunted character leads this masterpiece, with a sense of torment & courage.
'The Thin Red Line' runs for over a 171-minutes, but not for a minute, does the momentum go down. In fact, the pace is perfect, while the story only gets more & more intriguing with each passing scene. Malick also deserves a pat on his back for bringing in an ensemble cast as mammoth as this & more-so, for writing such powerful, emotional characters.
Malick is a genius & 'The Thin Red Line' is a shining example of that fact. His Direction here is mind-bending. He handles this heartbreakingly courageous story with flourish. Malick's Adapted Screenplay, on the-hand, is deeply effecting & moving. His work here as a Director & Writer, is simply incredible.
John Toll's Cinematography captures each moment magnificently. Editing by Leslie Jones, Saar Klein & Billy Weber is excellent. Music by Hans Zimmer, John Powell & Klaus Badelt is wonderful. War-Sequences are masterfully choreographed.
Performance-Wise: Nick Nolte steals the show. He's mesmerizing. He so deserved an Oscar-Nod for his performance. Jim Caviezel as the protagonist, delivers a heroic, heartfelt performance. Sean Penn is superb. Elias Koteas & Ben Chaplin are credible. John Cusack is restrained. Woody Harrelson is first-rate. Jared Leto leaves a mark. John Travolta & George Clooney are good in cameos.
On the whole, 'The Thin Red Line' is a Cinematic Achievement, NOT To Be Missed! Two Thumbs Up!