Une bière au front

I saw this movie tonight, without having any idea what I was going to see as a part of a mystery movie screening. The movie even has a cold opening, no title no a tors nothing, so I was sitting through the whole thing until I found out what it's called. I had never heard that this movie existed, what it was about or seen a glimpse of a trailer. This is not a movie that can be marketed, and is likely going to bomb at the box office.

Which is a real pity, as this is one if the more effective anti war movies I have seen, and I'm familiar with most of the usual suspects in that genre. It's not going for the big heroic moments, it's showing what a bloody stupid idea war is, having the Vietnam war as a stand-in for all wars. That doesn't mean there are even more stupid ideas, like Chickie's beer run, and believe me when I say Zac Efron is entirely vanishing in that character. I expect him and Russel Crowe to see nominations next award season for their work here, but while Crowe is chewing every scene he is in, Efron gives a much more subtle performance. Showing more with his expressions than words, how he changes as the movie progresses.

In a time of big franchises, CGI extravaganzas and super heroes, it sounds odd to say this was a breath of fresh air. There is humor in the movie, but it doesn't subvert the message, I just hope more people are going to see this movie, and talk about this movie, making filmmakers aware that good storytelling is still in demand.

An interesting cautionary tale of war by late-mid boomers for, and with, millennials. Told through the eyes of people at home, it touches lightly on a few themes surrounding the role of media, propaganda and military deception and ineptitude. While my family were either too old or too young to participate in this war, it reminded me that I grew up catching glimpses of this war, much like Chickies neighbourhood, and never properly understood what was going on- and in that respect it seemed very on point. Zac Efron is great in this, and makes the story seem modern in an effortless way. Much better than I thought it would be.

If this wasn't based on a true story, no one could've come up with it. It is so obscure and should be so impossible that if someone had even attempted to imagine this plot up, it would be disregarded as far too unbelievable.

But, alas, it was real. And Chickie Donohue was real. And man, was this story worth telling!

I really enjoyed the acting and storytelling that took place in this movie. The chaotic humor and nature of Chickie is endearing and enough to keep a heavy subject light enough that you can watch it without getting too mentally or emotionally bogged down. But, it doesn't omit the reality of the situation that was the Vietnam war. It walks a good balance.

Zac Efron also does a really good job, in my opinion. He portrays the oblivious moments perfectly, the emotional moments with care, and everything in between is believable. Russell Crowe also does a superb job in his role. I loved their scenes together.

The main thing working against this movie for me was that it was a little too long for the subject at hand. It could've been about 20-25 minutes shorter by shaving some things out that felt like they drug things out. Even though I liked it, it lost my attention a couple of times. If you give this a 1 hr 40 minute run time instead of 2 hr 10 minutes, I think it feels more succinct and polished.

Well worth the watch and I would encourage almost anyone to check it out!

While not the "greatest" movie ever, I enjoyed watching it. Efron, despite the critics' opinions does a decent if not outstanding job as "Chickee". The supporting cast including Russell Crowe as a cynical war photographer are all very good. I was also impressed by Ruby Serkis as Chickee's anti-war sister. When Chickee reaches Vietnam, there is plenty of commentary on the bravery of the soldiers fighting there along with the foolish decisions of politicians who sent them there. Also stars Bill Murray as the "Colonel" who runs Chickee's neighborhood bar. Recommended - 7/10. Also, be sure to watch the follow-up conversation with Zac Efron, the real "Chickee" Donohue, and the director Peter Farrelly.

This movie really takes you for a wild ride of emotions. One moment you are laughing, and the next you are stunned and horrified. The imagery of war and what it's true colors were is what I loved most about the film. It sucks you in with such a wholesome plot that quickly turns dark and somber. It's a film that everyone should see! Its brutally honest representation of the horrors of war and the beauty of friendship and human connection was done spectacularly. It's stunning cinematography and musical score just add to this movies enjoyment.

It isn't the best film and could be tweaked slightly in a few areas, but overall a truly enjoyable and memorable watch.

Highly recommend to any war buffs!