I have to agree with most of the detractors. However, it's always nice to first of all say something positive, as after all, people have spent time and money in making the film. So I would highlight Bates Wilder's performance as sincere and competent and probably the best thing about this film, but he and the rest of the cast really deserved a better script.
What did not please me? I've tried to keep this post to a manageable length!
Etiquette. The interaction between all the characters is totally unrealistic particularly considering that it is meant to be a history film. No way would a Sergeant have a conversation with a Captain on equal terms, or dictate to the officer what was going to happen, as is acted out when the rescue party reach the stranded platoon. Under this same heading, can we really believe that General Pershing, a four star General in charge of the entire AEF (at that time around 2 million men in the field) sits at a desk in a tiny office with apparently no work to do and no staff other than an over-friendly Colonel who pops in from time to time. And, what do they fret about with the imminent collapse of the German forces - a lost platoon on a tiny hill. It's just unbelievable.
Logistics. The rescue party set out with just their respirators and small arms. This is what would have been worn at the time for a "trench raid" when you would expect to be out of your trench and return again within hours after completing a task. For any expedition they would have needed to carry rations and the basic survival gear of the time.
Nurses. Can anyone explain to me the purpose of the scene with the red cross post other than to give screen time to a pretty actress?
Tactics. A German sniper would have been far better concealed than the hapless one depicted in the film. The battle scenes hark back to Hollywood films of the 40's and 50's where the Americans have an endless supply of ammunition, matched only by an endless supply of stupid Germans. The Huns charge in droves in open countryside to be mowed down.
Plagiarism? Many commentators have highlighted the similarity to Saving Private Ryan but I was also struck by the bayonet charge scene which is virtually word for word a copy of Chamberlain's charge in the "Gettysburg" movie.
Continuity. I feel mean bringing this up because it's probably a sign of a low budget. However it is really noticeable that the many scenes are mirrored to fit the direction of the action. Rifles have bolts which change from right to left of the weapon and collar dog badges become "S.U". It gives the feeling of a lazy and amateur approach to film making.
Sorry I can't be more positive.
What did not please me? I've tried to keep this post to a manageable length!
Etiquette. The interaction between all the characters is totally unrealistic particularly considering that it is meant to be a history film. No way would a Sergeant have a conversation with a Captain on equal terms, or dictate to the officer what was going to happen, as is acted out when the rescue party reach the stranded platoon. Under this same heading, can we really believe that General Pershing, a four star General in charge of the entire AEF (at that time around 2 million men in the field) sits at a desk in a tiny office with apparently no work to do and no staff other than an over-friendly Colonel who pops in from time to time. And, what do they fret about with the imminent collapse of the German forces - a lost platoon on a tiny hill. It's just unbelievable.
Logistics. The rescue party set out with just their respirators and small arms. This is what would have been worn at the time for a "trench raid" when you would expect to be out of your trench and return again within hours after completing a task. For any expedition they would have needed to carry rations and the basic survival gear of the time.
Nurses. Can anyone explain to me the purpose of the scene with the red cross post other than to give screen time to a pretty actress?
Tactics. A German sniper would have been far better concealed than the hapless one depicted in the film. The battle scenes hark back to Hollywood films of the 40's and 50's where the Americans have an endless supply of ammunition, matched only by an endless supply of stupid Germans. The Huns charge in droves in open countryside to be mowed down.
Plagiarism? Many commentators have highlighted the similarity to Saving Private Ryan but I was also struck by the bayonet charge scene which is virtually word for word a copy of Chamberlain's charge in the "Gettysburg" movie.
Continuity. I feel mean bringing this up because it's probably a sign of a low budget. However it is really noticeable that the many scenes are mirrored to fit the direction of the action. Rifles have bolts which change from right to left of the weapon and collar dog badges become "S.U". It gives the feeling of a lazy and amateur approach to film making.
Sorry I can't be more positive.