1990s World War II Epic Better Than Saving Private Ryan
War might never change, but war movies have certainly undergone a dramatic transformation over the years. Classic war films used to give actors like John Wayne a chance to exude strength and valor and pump up the patriotism for audiences, and films like Saving Private Ryan showed us just how terrifying combat truly is. But for films like The Thin Red Line, not only do they showcase the brutality of war, but they highlight the effect war has on our soldiers in a masterful way.
The Thin Red Line Is A Slept On Masterpiece
Many fans often consider Saving Private Ryan as the gold standard when it comes to the best war films of the last 30 years. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the 1998 film collected five Oscars and is lauded for its unflinching and graphic portrayal of war. Its opening scene of the Normandy invasion is still regarded as one of the most intense cinematic scenes in movie history.
Perhaps a bit under the radar, The Thin Red Line also came out in 1998 to less fanfare. Similar to Saving Private Ryan, the war film earned several Academy Award nominations. However, it failed to take home a single win, including losing in the Best Picture category to Shakespeare In Love.
Starts With A Contemplative Tone And Ramps Up
Despite leaving the Oscars empty-handed, The Thin Red Line has left an impression that can still be felt three decades later. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Terrence Malick, the war epic marked his return to cinema after a 20-year absence. Malick also penned the script as well, which was based on the 1962 novel by author James Jones.
The film follows the men of C Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. They have been tasked with securing Henderson Field on the island of Guadalcanal. After landing on the island, the company is met with little resistance, giving them time to reflect on their own lives.
An Introspective War-Time Odyssey
However, the down time is short-lived when they are ordered to attack a hill the following day. C Company is hit hard with a fierce defense from the Japanese forces on the island. With few choices on how to approach the battle, the company is forced to approach the battle head-on.
As the brutal battle for the island continues, the men of C Company are each pushed to their brink. With nowhere to run, the men must come to terms with their fates and continue on. But as the war wages on, each soldier examines their own humanity amid the chaos.
A More Personal Connection To The Soldiers
The Thin Red Line features a cast that nearly consists of half of Hollywood. Sean Penn, Jim Caviezel, George Clooney, and Woody Harrelson headline the star-studded cast. Not to be outdone, Nick Nolte, John C. Reilly, John Travolta each make appearances as well.
Comparing The Thin Red Line and Saving Private Ryan is like comparing tacos to pizza. Both are extraordinary in their own ways while accomplishing things that not many others can do. However, there is one distinct difference that sets this film apart.
As a war picture, The Thin Red Line elevates itself by giving its characters a chance to reflect on their actions. While examining war as a whole, there aren’t many positives to take away from it. But Malick’s war epic pays special attention to the soldiers caught in the mayhem.
A Soul-Crushing Exploration Of The Weight Of War
In addition to the storytelling, the film is as haunting as it is gorgeous. The brilliant cinematography is the perfect juxtaposition to the inner turmoil of every character. This film is a well-framed portrait of the duality of man and our battle between humanity and duty.
Even in victory, the men of C Company have a hard time feeling good about it. The film chooses to depict war as an unsightly blemish on every human’s soul and the weight of it all. While it’s nowhere close to a feel good film, The Thin Red Line is as good as it gets.
As of this writing, you can rent or purchase The Thin Red Line on Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video.
