Not Necessarily About WWII, But War in General

Rating: 7/10 (23 March 1999)

I think Malick's work reflects a deeper sensibility about what the soldier must overcome to survive, both against the enemy and within their own ranks. I also think that Malick treats the Japanese more humanely -- they're just as afraid as the guys in "Charlie Company" were -- than Spielberg did in "Saving Private Ryan," where his presentation of the Germans borders on the stereotypical. SPR was about WWII and the American Spirit; TRL could have been about Vietnam, about Korea, about the Gulf War or the Civil War, for that matter. The film is not so much about War as it is about its impact on the Soldier.
I'd have given this a higher recommendation, but I have to think about those unaccustomed to Malick's existentialist style, particularly the narrative. If you've seen either "Days of Heaven" or "Badlands," you'll not be surprised. If you haven't, you're in for a loooooooooonnnnnnnnngg three hours. It is beautifully and skillfully photographed, however; try to see it on a big screen if you still can, otherwise letterbox on home video.