A Mixed Bag

Rating: Null/10 (10 February 2000)

Having seen this film for the second time, recently, I still have mixed feelings over it. It certainly has magnificent scenery and camerawork which results in some very vivid images. While Saving Private Ryan took a view of war through the eyes of the ground troops, TRL seems to be seen through the eyes of an all seeing angry god (to put it pretentiously). I liked the fact that the film addressed the effects of war on the natural environment and displayed interactions between the soldiers and the local wildlife (snakes, bats, alligators, dogs, etc.). I liked that the Japanese weren't just depicted as stereotypes (although, they may have been portrayed a bit too idealistically). I liked the performances of James Caviezel (who reminds me of the young Monty Clift) and Elias Koteas, in particular. On the down side, Sean Penn was a mass of mannerisms and gelled up hair. Nick Nolte and John Savage overacted themselves into the realm of parody. John Travolta was extremely awkward and unconvincing as a navy admiral. Other cameos, such as those by George Clooney, Woody Harrelson, Jared Leto, etc. were just distracting and, rather than draw you into the movie, just reminded you that it was another "hollywood" production. Plus, the film never got you emotionally attached to any of the characters. Even after seeing it a second time, I could still never identify any of the characters by name. None of the deaths were as emotionally wretching as that of the medic, Wade, in Saving Private Ryan. The Zen philosophy of the voiceovers may have worked for one or two of the characters, but I can't believe that the majority of soldiers think like that under fire. Overall, while the scenery is best seen on the big screen, I think the movie is easier seen on video- where you can fastforward past some of through some of the dreck and performances and get to the best moments of the film. I'd be interested in hearing what an actual veteran of the Pacific thinks of TRL. Overall, I must say that, despite its flaws, I think that Saving Private Ryan is still the WWII movie to beat.