An Astonishing Journey

Rating: 9/10 (11 March 2006)

The Thin Red Line appears to be a film about war at first glance. It also appears to be a film about the nature of courage in the face of horror. On some levels it is these things and more,but beneath it's surface lies an even bolder subtext. Weaved into every frame of the film is a sweeping exploration of not only war but the nature of existence itself. What is our place in the universe? Is there any real possibility for peace when all of nature exists in a struggle for survival? How does beauty shine through even in the most horrible of places? These questions linger throughout this haunting film.Director Terrence Malick masterfully juxtaposes scenes of nature and indigenous peoples with scenes of battle and the struggle of the soldiers. The film unfolds in a dreamlike pace, moving from character to character, changing perspectives continually. The film is based on the novel by James Jones about the battle of Guadalcanal in World War 2. The cinematography and score are breathtaking. The acting is superb all around, especially Nick Nolte and Jim Caviezel. If you let it in, this film will leave you with a profound and lasting respect for the beauty of existence- a masterpiece.