Gene Corman's involvement as producer gives a certain impression about the movie well before one starts to watch, as does the list of credits for director Bernard L. Kowalski. (Though if nothing else is true, Kowalski made 1971 horror western 'Black noon,' which I think is utterly outstanding.) Our suspicions are borne out very quickly, at least in part, as this proves itself to boast a somewhat modest budget (though that's no reflection of quality), and be decidedly brusque and direct right out of the gate in terms of both writing and direction, including plot development. Despite any limitations the production may have faced, however, and any expectations we might have, this isn't half bad. There's no mistaking that this is effectively a B-grade war flick, but far bigger pictures have done worse with more.
Sure, it's hardly perfect. Whether owing to scarce resources or just in keeping with the overall tenor of the feature, some facets rather come across as doing the bare minimum - Calvin Jackson's score, for example, is fine as it serves its purpose, but is kind of bland and unremarkable. Some parts of the screenplay (chiefly, portions of the dialogue) feel too much like a first draft that never had the benefit of any rewrites before filming began, or even just a second pair of eyes or a basic review. This is seen not least of all in those sparing quiet moments (early on) between characters when we get background or hear their thoughts or feelings; 'Blood and steel' tries very hard to Be Smart and possibly say something, but the effort is so weak and ill-considered that it feels forced and empty. While period-appropriate, one should also note the use of racial slurs as the U. S. soldiers speak of Japanese combatants.
For any such issues one may discern, however, I'd call this a lot more enjoyable than not. If brief, fairly light, and imperfect, the scene writing and especially the narrative is pretty solid, and reasonably engaging. I appreciate that 'Blood and steel' is a war movie that takes place during a historic conflict, yet unlike most of its brethren this isn't about honor and glory, but the more low-key and less grandiose elements of military operations. The crew put in fine work, including sets, costume design, special makeup, and effects; bursts of action are executed well, and I actually do like Kowalski's direction. And thanks largely to the more successful facets of Joseph C. Gilette's writing, but also the contributions of all others involved, the feature even successfully fosters a tinge of tension and suspense as the tale progresses over these sixty minutes.
No, this isn't perfect. Yet earnestness goes a long way, and there was meaningful care and intelligence poured into it, and even some definite cleverness. There's no chance of 'Blood and steel' getting confused with its big-budget cousins; in comparison to other titles Corman or his brother have been involved with, however, or other fare of a second- or third-tier nature, the fact remains that this can claim unexpected, honest value. I will note furthermore that while his is only a supporting part, fans of James Hong may be glad to know this marks an early entry in his extraordinarily prolific film career. It's nothing you need to go out of your way to see, perhaps, but if you have the chance to watch, are looking for something light and uncomplicated, and don't mind when features are less than AAA in nature, then 'Blood and steel' is fairly worthwhile.
