We Were Soldiers (2002) Review in 2025
We Were Soldiers is a historical war drama film based on the Battle of Ia Drang, the first major conflict between American forces and the North Vietnamese Army. The movie follows the story of Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore and his men as they fight against overwhelming odds.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
No, due to its graphic content and intense battle scenes, this movie is not suitable for young children.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of war dramas and historical films. It's a gripping and intense film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. However, due to its graphic content, it's not suitable for young children.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film takes place in 1965, during the Vietnam War, and focuses on the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, led by Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore, who is played by Mel Gibson. The unit is sent to Ia Drang, a remote valley in South Vietnam, to search for enemy forces. As they engage the enemy, they are vastly outnumbered and outgunned, leading to a series of intense battles that test their courage and resolve.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is well-researched and accurately portrays the events of the Battle of Ia Drang. The film's narrative is engaging and keeps the viewer invested in the characters' fate.
acting8.50/10
The acting is superb, with Mel Gibson delivering a standout performance as Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, particularly Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore, who is portrayed by Mel Gibson. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances.
direction9.00/10
The direction by Randall Wallace is superb, effectively conveying the intensity and chaos of war. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of action, drama, and suspense.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, capturing the beauty and brutality of war. The film's use of lighting, camera angles, and special effects enhances the overall viewing experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's accurate portrayal of the Battle of Ia Drang, excellent direction, and superb cinematography make it a standout film. The performances by the cast, particularly Mel Gibson, are also noteworthy.
Cons
The film's graphic content and intense battle scenes may be disturbing for some viewers. Additionally, the film's pacing can be slow at times, which may test the viewer's patience.
Notable Quotes
"The enemy is not just the North Vietnamese Army, it's the jungle itself."
"We are not here to win a war, we are here to win a battle."
"We will fight on the beaches, in the streets, and in the jungles. We will fight with every ounce of strength we have."
