After watching “Tall Tale” & “Fly Away Home,” film producer, Mark Gordon hired Robert Rodat to brainstorm a few ideas. The latter came up with an idea. Set in World War II, a group of soldiers who embark on a mission to find the last surviving brother of slain soldiers who’s missing in battle so they can send him home. The plot’s none other than “Saving Private Ryan.”
The pair did extensive research on World War II reading Stephen E. Ambrose’s book titled, “D-Day June 6, 1944: The Climatic Battle of World War II.” A book about four brothers deployed during the war. The late historian acted as a consultant to Mark & Robert giving them pointers. After months of research, Steven Spielberg was intrigued with the story. Tom Hanks signed on to carry the film and Matt Damon as the titular character.
Released in 1998, (same year The Thin Red Line came out) Saving Private Ryan earned universal acclaim form critics and movie goers alike. In addition to praise, the film became the second highest grossing film of the year. Saving Private Ryan earned a Golden Globe for “Best Drama.” Sadly, it didn’t win “Best Picture.” “Shakespeare in Love” stole it. The Oscars made a big boo boo. Regardless of losing, Steven Spielberg managed to win his second Oscar for “Best Director.” Saving Private Ryan became influential to other World War II films including “Inglorious Basterds,” “Enemy at the Gates,” “Hacksaw Ridge,” “Flags of Our Fathers” and my personal favorite “Dunkirk.” In 2014, Saving Private Ryan was selected in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.
Matt Damon will appear in Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated “Oppenheimer” with Cillian Murphy as the titular character. Before it comes out, I wanna share my thoughts on Saving Private Ryan.
This review contains no crucial SPOILERS. I’m giving some of you a chance to see this masterpiece.
Victory & Defeat Aspects
Victory: Tom Hanks, Edward Burns, Matt Damon, Barry Pepper, Giovanni Ribisi, Paul Giamatti and the late Tom Sizemore all did an excellent job for their respective performances.
Steven Spielberg did an excellent job directing the film. He also co-produced the film courtesy of his production companies DreamWorks and Amblin Entertainment.
Action Sequences never shy away from realistic combat. If you have a sensitive stomach, prepare yourself. The Omaha Beach scene is very brutal. South Park spoofed it from the three-part episode “Imaginationland.” Even “Sausage Party” spoofed the infamous scene.
Robert Rodat wrote the script. He made sure to remain faithful to the Allies who tremendously sacrificed themselves for our country and their respective ones.
Frank Darabont (The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile) did some uncredited rewrites.
John Williams orchestrated the soundtrack.
Practical Effects were heavily involved to stage brutal combat scenes.
Chemistry between Miller and his men are the main highlight. They must cooperate with one another in order to stay alive and find Ryan.
Set Pieces and Costume Designs reflect the time period taking place in 1944.
We learn about Miller’s life prior to enlisting. His hand’s shaky due to his experience in battle.
A then-unknown Vin Diesel appears as one of Miller’s men. Back then, Vin was struggling to make it into show biz. Steven casted him after seeing his directorial debut “Strays.”
Nathan Fillion & Bryan Cranston make brief appearances.
Primary Themes are Survival, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder & Loss. Each one’s handled carefully.
I can’t tell you how it ends. You’re gonna have to see for yourself.
Defeat: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Steven and his crew an Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.
Cinematography is often shaky. I’ll let this con slide. It was Steven’s idea to shoot the film like a World War II documentary. You can tell he’s taken the film seriously.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
Saving Private Ryan is Steven Spielberg’s best (if not the best) work and my number one favorite film of 1998. If you’re into World War II films, I strongly recommend this masterpiece. Don’t forget to check on the HBO mini-series “Band of Brothers.” I think Steven’s film should be included in The Criterion Collection.
In memory of the Allies who sacrificed themselves who served our country and their respective ones. Your legacy will never be forgotten.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 