jdcoates

This movie surprised me. I had thought it was going to be a standard "B-western" movie, but with the sets, action scenes, and locations I was pleasantly surprised. I think this is a solid western. My only real complaint is Sterling Hayden. He's fairly wooden in his portrayal. I'm a big fan of Hayden based on his real life accomplishments. You can check out his Wikipedia page, but in World War II as a marine of the Pacific, he was awarded "Silver Star Metal," "American Campaign Metal," among others. Back to his movie career, he was very popular not only with Hollywood costars, but also with the public. Evidently a very standup guy. But, that doesn't change the fact that his acting chops lead a lot to be desired. Again, I enjoyed the movie and I recommend it. It's a by-the-numbers western but well done, well-made and enjoyable.

One Error: At around the one hour and four minute mark, there's an air right by the Russians on the German position. The Russians are using USA F4U Corsair fighter planes. They did not use these planes in the war.

Enjoyable movie. It's tough to root for the Germans, but the producers pit them against the "evil" Russians. Regardless, you still have to remember that the movie focuses on the invading force. The movie softens this by not being political or militant/characteristic, but by focusing on the day and the life of every soldier. These is an out of place scene at the beginning between the new German Captain and two German soldiers. The Captain sees them being affectionate and dialogue ensues where the Captain accuses them of being gay, and warns them it's a hanging offense. I say out of place as it has no other bearing on the story or events. Weird.

True "edge of your seat." Think of the tension of the first 15 minutes of "Saving Private Ryan," but over an hour and a half. No spoilers, but I love the fact that the movie immediately drops you into the situation. We don't need to know why the soldiers are there, or what their objective/mission is, because that's irrelevant when the bullets start to fly. These are just soldiers going on a mission. Finally, as a patriotic American, I feel that before Congress & the President deploy any of our U. S. Service people into harms way, they and the CEOs of Raytheon, Blackrock, Vanguard, and Halliburton should be forced to watch this movie, as well as the first 15 minutes of Saving Private Ryan, before anyone is deployed. Also, the law should be passed that all of their children should be the first deployed, call it the "No Fortunate Son" law. I think we would have less wars if that happened.