A Bridge Too Far

3.5 out of 10 A Bridge Too Far has awesome production values, a great cast, and occasionally stunning cinematography, but it's a confused account of Operation Market Garden. As a historical account, the movie is too rigidly executed, and as a war film, the movie is never particularly horrific in its portrayal of combat. Not a single actor stands out, everyone is on hand to simply give us some piece of information and slink back into the background. Richard Attenborough's direction is lacking, without any depth behind the presentation he's giving. The musical score is absolutely horrendous, coming off as bright and lively, completely the opposite of what's needed to fit the tone. Band of Brothers, in its one hour segment about Operation Market Garden, did a far superior job.

I'm not a fan of hyperbole but this may be one of the greatest war movies ever made. It works on a number of levels. While being historically accurate it shows individual and group heroism without glorifying war. The players, German and Allied, are presented as human beings caught up in something bigger than themselves. No attempt is made at "jingoism" or gratuitous flag waving. It seemed to me to be refreshing free of moralistic or political statements. It simply let what happened speak for itself. For a history buff like myself it spoke volumes. The movie is flawless. As mentioned above, it is surprisingly accurate. As one would expect from the cast, acting is first rate. Not a single scene is wasted. This is a "must see" movie for anyone who appreciates movie making.