AndreaWeaver1

All quiet on the western front is an incredible look at the deplorable conditions of trench warfare, the unfairness of violent loss and the futility of war in general. This particular instance is a quintessential example of the massive toll fighting takes on both sides; 17 million lives lost over a stretch of land and some ideals. It seems more often than not that few want war, but those few are unfortunately the ones in charge, so the whole of humanity suffers. Therefore, throughout the duration of the film, it is important to remind oneself that this perspective is not one that is generally shown in western media. We (america) supported the french, so naturally, the germans are the enemy. However, the viewpoint here is flipped. We can't help but root for paul. It feels as if there is no 'good' or 'bad' guy that is fighting on either side of the trench. Everyone suffers.

Overall, all quiet on the western front should be required viewing for everyone, everywhere. This film is by far one of the most powerful i've ever watched. That word makes me cringe because i want to shy away from being cliché, but i have never been so moved, horrified and broken hearted while watching a movie as i was here. Of course, the subject material carries the film, but not without the incredibly strong aid of breathtaking cinemtography, astounding performances, fantastic sounds design and a genuinely beautiful use of contrast and color. The emotional heaviness felt in consumption is strategically supported by striking imagery. The viewer is sure to not forget how this attacks the senses.

The timeliness of this film release is so ironically staggering as well. Powerful people make decisions that cripple the innocent just to make a point. Why is humanity so innately animal that we revert to violence at any disruption to our pride?

This is an interesting movie: one can easily pick out the satire and deduce the motif that combining art and capitalism can be wrong, etc. Gilroy isn't shy about sending strong messages.

All in all, I enjoyed the film; the acting was stellar (probs specifically to Jake Gyllenhaal), the cinematography was solid (many parrellels to Nightcrawler) and the storyline delivered. I was engaged the whole time and pleasantly surprised. Don't look to far into it before watching, surprise yourself!

This film had me scratching my head from the very beginning. The stilted conversation and odd human interaction was so unnerving and incredibly well done. The music is reminiscent of A24 films; the compositions do their job in adding to the prickling tension. Barry Keoghan is such a creep and I loved it. Yeah it was confusing, but I'll take it. Only for three stars though...