Comment and Plot Questions ?

Rating: 9/10 (26 December 2001)

***SPOILERS*** ***SPOILERS*** I am surprised to learn that there has been negative reaction toward this film (and even that someone walked out of it). I found it extremely engaging and, to my mind, a very perceptive representation of what it war nust be like for some individuals. The characterisation was weak; it was near impossible to identify the emotional bent of any of the characters, except maybe the Nick Nolte madman character, but perhaps that low characterisation is a feature of the movie. There was certainly a sense that all these men American AND Japanses were human soldiers, nothing more nothing less. And that underscored the tragedy in all the killing. I had no sense that this was a major strategic battle (having not read or heard anything of the film beforehand) and as such it appeared to be a senseless scramble up a beautiful hill.
Much as I liked the film, I have a few basic plot questions. At the risk of sounding naive, why in fact did the main character walk through the village in the middle of the film. Was this figurative or is the opening sequence in fact something that takes palce in the middle? I agree that the village represents a kind of Eden but am confused (a little) on the chronology.
Also, do you think that when this main character, Jack, gets a Dear Jack letter, he gives up hope and thereby volunteers for the dangerous river scouting mission at the end (where he gets shot)?
Finally, what on earth happened to Nick Nolte? He just seemed to disappear by the final scene? Is that why Clooney pops out of nowhere as the new leader?
I don't mean to reduce this excellent film to it's plot, and accept that on other levels it works beautifully, but I would be interested in any clarifications...!