Reach for Glory

This is a disturbing film on a difficult subject, handled extremely well by all involved, particularly the young actors. Although this film is capable of several interpretations, I'd guess it's intended as a plea to adults not to force our children to grow up too fast. This film hasn't gotten the attention it deserves and isn't shown very often in the U.S., but it's well worth looking for.

I saw this film as a twelve year old kid in Arkansas. I have not seen it since then, though I have strong memories of the film, and I have been looking for it. As I recall (I can still recall specific scenes) the pacing and story development created great tension and suspense.

The interaction among the boys seemed so realistic. Kids can be so cruel. Also, the militaristic mindset is so easily passed on to children. The film is a "book end"of a kind to "Lord of the Flies". The ending is shocker (it was to me)and turned my stomach. I wish this film was available to rent. I have searched Netflix and they don't have it. Perhaps if enough of us request it...

The obtuse nastiness with which adults view the completely innocent relationship between the two boys is based on the same regressive ignorance which prompts them to make war. They condemn each boy's search for love, as they push him to play war games in an atmosphere of cruelty and mistrust. War and jingoism are thus portrayed as the denial of man's natural inclination to love: "you've got to be taught to hate".

As society embraces hate, the result means personal disaster for the individual who innocently chooses otherwise. This is a moving film drama from a time when such questions were considered suitable material for the screen. A forgotten classic.

I saw this film as a child (10-12 years old.) The ending shocked me. I remember it as a very powerful film. I always thought it was titled "A Short walk to Glory". I found it in a search of the IMDb. I would like to be able to see it again. think the IMDb is a great resource.