Fredric March gives an outstanding performance as an Army pilot officer dealing with the issues of mortality as he deals with constant death surrounding him. Five of his men are killed in front of his eyes in a short period of time and when the next one comes in, it is Cary Grant, whom he had earlier fought with. March quietly keeps everything in, only managing a smile thank to the comic antics of the bombastic Jack Oakie.
One long sequence has March finding comfort thanks to a glamorous stranger he meets, played by Carole Lombard. Intent on obviously seducing him, she provides a much needed shoulder as she realizes the impact that the war has had on him.
More war drama than action, this gives a private peak into the inner turmoils that men face while fighting. Even killing an enemy can lead to extreme psychological issues as the impact takes affect.
Powerful and profound, this is part anti-war and part pro as it deals with both sides of the situation. One of the best World War I dramas, this ranks up there with "Wings" and "All Quiet on the Western Front" although its short running time indicates a B film. It definitely ranks among the A's. Grant is supporting but does get a characterization that is strongly shifted by the circumstances surrounding him.
One long sequence has March finding comfort thanks to a glamorous stranger he meets, played by Carole Lombard. Intent on obviously seducing him, she provides a much needed shoulder as she realizes the impact that the war has had on him.
More war drama than action, this gives a private peak into the inner turmoils that men face while fighting. Even killing an enemy can lead to extreme psychological issues as the impact takes affect.
Powerful and profound, this is part anti-war and part pro as it deals with both sides of the situation. One of the best World War I dramas, this ranks up there with "Wings" and "All Quiet on the Western Front" although its short running time indicates a B film. It definitely ranks among the A's. Grant is supporting but does get a characterization that is strongly shifted by the circumstances surrounding him.