Spiritual quality

Rating: 8/10 (31 December 1999)

A beautiful film with a spiritual quality that comes together like a requiem for those who died at war, not only at Guadalcanal, but in all wars. The contrast between horrific slaughter, terror and futility of war and the beauty of nature in this tropical paradise captured on film in thrilling close-up has tremendous emotional impact. The soliloquies of Witt (James Caviezel) bring one almost to tears, "Where do wars come from?" he asks. Two scenes are particularly memorable - one scene where the company of soldiers under heavy fire struggle up a hillside covered in ribbon grass to take a Japanese bunker on top of the hill - and another where three soldiers as an advance party wade up a river to seek out the exact position of approaching Japanese infantry. One gets the feeling, it's kill or get killed on both occasions. All the characters are well played, especially the portrayal of constant fear on their faces on their first combat duty, The make-up department does a wonderful job recreating the tired, dirty, sweating bodies of the soldiers as they push on through the tropical heat without adequate water supplies. The casualties, too, all bloodied and mutilated lying in the grass create an awful impact. Against all odds the commanding officer (Nick Nolte) drives the men forward though most question the wisdom of his commands and doubtful tactics. A great piece of acting here by Nick Nolte as the half-crazed obstinate officer. For me the most emotional scene in the whole film was where a soldier kept alive and active by thoughts of his loved one receives a letter from home. The message is devastating. There are no winners in war. The final scene where Witt is surrounded on every side by Japanese soldiers with guns raised is unforgettable as his steady gaze is directed down the barrel of a gun. No words are spoken, but we feel every second of this moment. Great drama. Great acting. I believe this is a well-constructed, well directed, well photographed film. Everyone should see it and learn from it.