The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) Review in 2025
A British colonel is captured by the Japanese during World War II and is forced to build a bridge for them, but he has a different plan in mind.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and war content, but it's suitable for older teenagers and adults.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of war dramas and adventure movies. It's a classic that holds up well even today, and it's a great example of David Lean's mastery of the genre.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie follows Colonel Nicholson, a British officer who is captured by the Japanese and is forced to build a bridge for them. However, he has a different plan in mind and tries to sabotage the bridge, leading to a series of events that change the course of the war.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear plot and well-developed characters. The themes of war, loyalty, and sacrifice are well-explored and add depth to the movie.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Alec Guinness delivering a standout performance as Colonel Nicholson. The supporting cast is also excellent, and the acting is convincing and engaging.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Colonel Nicholson being a standout performance. The chemistry between the actors is excellent, and the characters' interactions are believable and engaging.
direction9.00/10
The direction is superb, with David Lean bringing the story to life with his masterful use of camera angles and lighting. The pacing is well-balanced, and the tension builds up to a thrilling climax.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of the jungle and the bridge. The use of color and lighting is excellent, and the camera work is innovative and engaging.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's themes of war, loyalty, and sacrifice are well-explored and add depth to the movie. The characters are well-developed and complex, and the acting is superb. The direction and cinematography are also excellent.
Cons
The movie's pace can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the themes and content too mature.
Notable Quotes
"Madness! Madness! You're mad, I'm mad, we're all mad!"
