In Love and War

Filmed entirely in Italy, this true World War II drama about an English prisoner-of-war is superb. Everything about this film is brilliant; more importantly, it's a testament to the indomitable will of the human spirit.

'In love and war' is truly an amazing effort to exhibit the troubles of a British soldier who is left behind as he is injured while all others try to reach borders but are captured by Germans as prisoners of war in Italy. The humanity shown by the Italians against the Germans in favor of the British Soldier(Callum Blue) is heart touching. The chemistry and sincere love that he shares with the Italian girl who initially helps him in translation adds quite a spark to the whole theme. Its a beautiful movie that involves love and thrill with all the hope and purity. The pace and the setting is all justified and the fact that its a true story makes it an even enchanting experience. I recommend it to all those who find story based movies interesting. Hats off to the whole team !!

When a serious war diary is brought to the screen, the adaptation requires serious attention to character development through dialogue and acting. The plot is, for the most part, given. In "In Love and War," John Mortimer does the adapting. He is a genius at comedy writing, especially through his "Rumpole of the Bailey" stories. In this latest work, the story is very entertaining, but it misses through unrealistic dialogue and inadequate character development through the acting.

I loved this movie - the actors were wonderful and suited their roles. The story itself was great (and true, the setting was perfect and the message about human response to the war, danger and risk was exceptional. The person who wrote the music score also did the music for Life is Beautiful (another favourite of mine)- his comment was apparently that "...this was not a like an English movie, it was like an Italian movie." I think he's right! Callum Blue is perfect for the part of Eric Newby. I recommend this movie to everyone who wants to watch a story that is true and morally uplifting as well as a beautiful love story.

Based on the true story of a British soldier who must be left behind after being injured as the Nazis approach, he wanders throughout Italy trying in vain to make his way back to Allied forces, his country, whereever, and meets a young Italian girl who translates for him. The surprises at every turn when he seems to encounter fear of Nazis and instead it is humanity is a driving force in this film. The disdain for the Axis powers is found at every turn. Expect to see a small scene of a nun facing off against the Nazis. The nun will win, by the way. Escapes abound in this movie as well.

The only recognizeable face is the British fellow who appears in English shows like 'Rumpole of the Bailey' and 'To The Manor Born'.

Callum Blue as Eric Newby has everything Hugh Grant does, without the wimpiness or scandal. The Italian country side is also an outstanding supporting player in this film. I was used to grape vineyards and Godfather scenery in Italy. While still being the country, it was nice to not see bad tempered stereotypes. And the slow, sad musical score that creeps in will be perfect to make the dear woman beside you reach for her Kleenex.