The Great War (1964) Review in 2025
The Great War is a historical drama film that depicts the events leading up to and during World War I. The movie explores the complex relationships between European powers and the rise of nationalism.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its graphic content and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for its historical significance and cinematography, but it's not a must-see. If you're a fan of historical dramas, you may enjoy it, but it's not a standout film.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film shows the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which sparks the outbreak of war. The movie follows the story of a young officer who becomes embroiled in the conflict and struggles to maintain his humanity in the face of unimaginable violence.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is engaging and well-researched, but it feels a bit disjointed at times. The film tries to cover too much ground and as a result, some plot threads feel underdeveloped.
acting7.00/10
The acting is generally good, but some of the performances feel a bit over-the-top. John Wayne and Rock Hudson deliver solid performances, but they feel a bit miscast.
characters6.00/10
The characters are well-acted, but they feel a bit one-dimensional. The protagonist is particularly underdeveloped and lacks a clear motivation.
direction7.00/10
The direction is solid, but it feels a bit too safe at times. The film could have benefited from a bit more experimentation and risk-taking.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with some truly breathtaking shots. The use of color and lighting is particularly noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Great War is a visually stunning film with a solid story and good performances. The cinematography is particularly noteworthy, with some truly breathtaking shots.
Cons
The film feels a bit disjointed at times, and some of the characters feel underdeveloped. The direction is a bit too safe, and the acting is not always convincing.
Notable Quotes
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
"War is not a game, it's a serious business."
