Sure to become an instant classic, War Horse is a surprising return to 1930's style films where character development is key. Stylistically, it reminds me of Howard Hawks' Oscar-winning WWI masterpiece, Sergeant York. Although based on a novel, this film spotlights the actual use of cavalry during the Great War. After 1914, both sides largely abandoned this style of warfare in favor of tanks. The British continued to use mounted troops throughout the conflict. It appears to capture some real events in the Alsatian region of France and the Bloody Somme.
While it has some amazingly accurate depictions of WWI combat, this movie is really about family, loyalty, the folly of war, and the special relationships we forge with some of God's creatures. Spielberg largely eschews fast-paced action to show us the heart of his human and animal characters. A beautiful score by John Williams and breathtaking cinematography by Janusz Kaminski cap off the very high production values of this movie. The audience at my screening was rapt in its attention throughout its entire 2.5 hour duration and quite a bit of sniffling could be heard during the moving finale. Highly recommended for the entire family.
While it has some amazingly accurate depictions of WWI combat, this movie is really about family, loyalty, the folly of war, and the special relationships we forge with some of God's creatures. Spielberg largely eschews fast-paced action to show us the heart of his human and animal characters. A beautiful score by John Williams and breathtaking cinematography by Janusz Kaminski cap off the very high production values of this movie. The audience at my screening was rapt in its attention throughout its entire 2.5 hour duration and quite a bit of sniffling could be heard during the moving finale. Highly recommended for the entire family.