***********SPOILER ALERT***************
I saw the movie when it opened, which was a week ago at least. I had to wait to write my comments because I wasn't entirely sure how I felt about it.
I liked "Jarhead," without a doubt. 3.5 stars out of 5. Yet something is missing. I am not entirely certain I got the point of view of the film. I left feeling there was a huge build up to a climax that never came, which I suspect is the point of the film.
The movie is about a young marine's experience in the first Gulf War, based on his book. It's beautiful to watch; there are striking images that will stay with me forever. When you see the horse, you'll understand. We watch Jake Gyllenhaal as he enlists in the Marines for no good reason and is chosen to be a sniper. He is sent to the Gulf to fight a war that never quite happens, at least for him and his outfit.
The boredom, the commraderie, the training, the boredom, the creative ways they found to counteract the boredom, the constant hydration in the desert, the boredom....all are exquistely documented. I wasn't bored, as I've read that various reviewers were. It's just that Mendes, the director, creates his reality very well. You're right there with those young Marines and their crusty and trusted staff sargent, Jamie Foxx. You feel what they feel, which is a whole lot of nothing and frustration and longing for home and waiting, waiting, waiting for what never comes.
It's an odd movie in that I still can't figure if it's an anti-war film. There was no war as we know it from a thousand war movies.
The acting was superb. I especially liked Peter Sarsgaard, whom I've enjoyed in every role he's played. I wouldn't be surprised if he picks up an Oscar nomination for supporting actor.
I left the movie feeling conflicted, and I suspect that is exactly what the director wanted.
I did like "Jarhead," though, make no mistake about that.
Reading is freedom.
The mind soars, no earthly cares,
no limitations.
A Maggers Haiku, 2005
Years ago my mother used to say to me... "In this world, Elwood, you can be oh so smart or oh so pleasant."
Well, for years I was smart.
I recommend pleasant.
You may quote me.
Elwood P. Dowd