It's no Saving Pvt. Ryan----it's more!

Rating: 10/10 (12 February 1999)

Let me first say that I saw this film twice. Once before and once after the Oscar nominations. The nomination was NOT the reason I went to see it a second time. I had already decided to because of the film's uniqueness, thoughtfulness, and, yes, the confusion which I felt while watching the film. First I thought that the film treated the Japanese, the enemy, evenhandedly showing them no better or worse than the oft times confused American GI's. In fact most of the post battle violence was American. The movie is presented in narration by personal thoughts was an interesting aspect and featured unusual and compelling flashbacks. The movie seemed to more about psychology, personality, and philosophy more than war, but the war with its inherent graphic violence is very much present. What I thought was outstanding and very unusual about this war film was the cinematography ---not the battle scenes but nature. It is every featured in this film. Whether it is the beautiful tropical grasses the soldiers are crawling thru or the water scenes including the ocean, a waterfall, and a stream all shot in captivating ways or and animals from tropical birds to fruit bats to lizards making appearances unexpectedly, nature is everywhere evident. I'm sure there is a symbolic element here and I have my opinions but I'll let you draw your own conclusions. Lastly (and not in importance) there were many outstanding performances. Mr. Penn as the straight arrow sergeant, Mr. Koteas as the independent captain, Mr. Nolte as the ambitious Lt. Colonel, Mr. Harrelson as an emotional gut driven sergeant, and Mr. Caviezel as the sensitive off-center (I don't know if that's the right word) foot soldier, all were great characters and played superbly. Personally I thought Mr. Caviezel was the best of the best but it is a close call. There are countless other great characters and performances as well. This movie was worth seeing twice. There is so much offered by this film that I absorbed more and appreciated it even the second time. Please do not consider this a criticism. It is great one time experience. FOUR STARS!!!!