" It's a Navajo prayer which allows the Spirit to be able to recognize its body"

Rating: 9/10 (30 November 2008)

During World War two, dozens of minorities in the US fought on the side of the American Armed Forces. Spanish Americans received their baptism of fire during the 'Battan Death March.' Japanese Americans, despite having their Constitional rights trampled, did their share mostly on the Italian mainland. But it is this film, "The Wind Talkers" that Native Americans, specifically Navajos, from the Southwest, had their proudest moments immortalized on film. It is true Native Navajos became famous for their unique language or Unbreakable Code which became indispensable for Military communications during the Battle for Siapan and other islands. Unfortunately it took 60 years for them to be recognized. John Woo's movie is incredibly prolific in its vicious rendering of the savage island battle. History records the Japanese lost 30,000 soldiers defending, while American losses were approximately 3,000. The brutal drama selects Nicolas Cage as Sergeant Joe Enders, an experienced Marine who wants to avenge his dead comrades, by feigning full recovery from his wounds and volunteering for combat. His secret orders are, 'to protect and if necessary, Prevent his Code-talker from ever falling into enemy hands. Adam Beach plays Private Ben Yahzee, who believes he is only doing his military duty by being a Code-Talker. Roger Willie plays Private Charlie Whitehorse a second Navajo who proves his courage under the most extreme battle conditions. Peter Stormare is convincing as Gunnery Sergeant Hjelmstad and Christian Slater plays Sgt. Pete Anderson, a Marine with second thoughts on caring out his secret duty. Jason Isaacs has a bit part as Major Mellitz, who emphasizes to his men the importance of following orders. The direction of the film is complementary to the story and is worthwhile for any action movie fan to sit riveted to his chair as the war-time slaughter explodes across the fiery screen. For we who are reminded of the sacrifices of our Veterans and wartime servicemen, this movie is a fitting tribute indeed. The finished product? A military Classic in the making. ****