A great classic

I had the privilege to see this flick on the big screen but since it was already 15 years ago, a re-watch was really needed. And I wasn't disappointed. Indeed, back then, I was pretty impressed but the second time around, I was really blown away. Basically, the whole thing is just so shocking, heartbreaking and downright revolting. In my opinion, it is easily the best movie starring Kirk Douglas and one of the best directed by Stanley Kubrick. It is basically one of the greatest anti-war movies, it is as simple as that and even though it was only Kubrick's 3rd directing feature, he was apparently already one of the great masters. For example, the battle scene was just really impressive. It might not have been as bloody as 'Saving Private Ryan' but for a 55 years old flick, it was technically and visually quite brilliant. I above all loved the juxtaposition between the fancy headquarters, the nice little diners, the little chats, the nice dance parties the general have together and the dirt, the constant humidity, the hunger, the fear and the horror of the trenches. Also the way the generals talk about the soldiers was so despicable but, unfortunately, probably accurate. In the history books, this war was called 'The Great War' but there was nothing much great about it, except maybe the huge number of casualties. To conclude, it is a great movie, one of Kubrick's best, and it is definitely worth a look, especially if you are interested in Stanley Kubrick's work.

9/10