Gritty and Realistic WWII Drama

Rating: 8/10 (13 November 1999)

The Thin Red Line is a gritty and realistic WWII drama that is among the best WWII movies ever made. It's about a battle for an unknown hill protecting a Japanese airfield on a remote Pacific island.
Director Terrence Malick divides his film into three parts. The first deals with the hours preceding the battle and shows how the individuals are dealing with the rising tension. The second, the battle itself, contains some of the most realistic battle scenes ever filmed. The final part deals with the aftermath of the battle and its effects on the survivors.
Nick Nolte, in one of his best performances, heads a large cast as the commanding officer of the company of infantry who sends wave after wave of soldiers into a seemingly suicidal battle. Elias Koteas also stands out as the beleaguered captain forced to carry out Nolte's orders. "After 15 years, it's my first war" Nolte tells him.
Sean Penn, billed over the title, does not dominate the film as he usually does, but instead effectively underplays his role as one of the platoon sergeants. Several recognizable stars appear in featured roles and cameos. Among them, Woody Harrelson, John Cusack, John Savage, George Clooney and John Travolta.
Although almost three hours in length, believe me you will not notice the time. Not to be missed.