Trond_E Reviews

The Green Berets (1968)

Patriotic movie

[8/10 · 7 September 1999]

By making this movie in the midst of The Vietnam war John Wayne proved he was man of courage and principle.Despite the growing anti-war moment in the US at the time, Wayne had the courage to make a film that stood up for and defended the troops fighting communism in Asia. The movie is very far from perfect; unrealistic military tactics, bad special effect, overlong script and more, but it is still a movie that honors the military and the sacrifices made by those who saw communism in Vietnam as a threat to American/western way of life. Wayne is to be commended for his effort to bolster patriotism and pride, no matter what his many critics say. Recommended.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

The best war movie..EVER!!

[10/10 · 29 July 1999]

Wow! What can I say...This is truly Spielberg`s masterpiece. It will take a lot of effort to to find any significant flaw in this epic. It is a real disgrace that it was not awarded "Best Picture" at the Academy Awards. One of the outstanding aspects of this film, is that despite it`s realistic description of war as hell on earth, it clearly points out that the sacrifices was not all for nothing. Democracy and freedom must never be taken for granted. I give it a 10! See it today, and buy a copy on VHS tomorrow.

Courage Under Fire (1996)

Patriotism and courage. Great movie

[9/10 · 29 July 1999]

This movie is one of the best war movies produced in a long time. Unlike many other war movies, this one brilliantly shows that in wartime, "truth" is sometimes dependent on the eyes of the beholder. One thing that I really enjoy with this movie is that instead of offering the typical liberal "war bashing" which really annoys me, it demonstrates to the full the sacrifice and courage displayed by the military and the men and women in uniform. After seeing this great and patriotic movie, I was truly moved. See it today!!

Enemy of the State (1998)

Fascinating movie, but with Will Smith as an obvious miscast

[6/10 · 25 July 1999]

I have never fully understood the hype surrounding Will Smith. He was undoubtly very funny in "Prince of Bel Air" and "Men in black", but he lacks credibility and charisma in this movie. Will Smith as a civil rights lawyer? No way! His talents are almost wasted in a movie like this. The movie itself, however, is truly fascinating and very well crafted. Gene Hackman is, as always, great in every way. Well worth the money, but it would have been so much better without Smith.

Brooklyn South (1997–1998)

An excellent cop show

[23 July 1999]

Brooklyn South is probably one of the best TV shows ever produced. Unfortunately, the series did not do well enough in the US, and was cancelled after only 1 season. That is a shame, regarding it`s realism, life and death drama and gripping storytelling. Really gives a good insight into the lives of some of "New York`s finest"

Major Dad (1989–1993)

Good TV-show, positive look on military life

[23 July 1999]

"Major Dad" takes a humorous look on the challenges facing typical military families, in this case the family of a US Marine Major. The characters are credible, the acting is above average for these kinds of TV-series, and most importantly, it`s funny. Despite the fact that the series is a comedy, it also shows the difficulties and sacrifices necessary to combine family life and faithful dedication to the military way of life. The series is very pro military(which is good), and is hereby recommended.

7th Heaven (1996–2007)

Excellent entertainment for the whole family

[17 July 1999]

This family TV-show distinguish itself by being unusually warmhearted, and by its ability to create good entertainment while promoting family values, tradition, faith and responsibility. Even if the underlying message sometimes creates unrealistic situations and problems, and some of the actors (especially "Matt" and the mother) do not fit in perfectly, it is highly recommended for viewers who are looking for an alternative to your usual Hollywood TV shows.

Truman (1995 TV Movie)

Great actors, great movie

[8/10 · 17 July 1999]

I must admit, before seeing this movie my expectations were somewhat low. However, I was surprised to learn that it is a really intelligent, sober and most importantly, truthful TV movie describing how an "ordinary American" and farmer, Harry S. Truman, rose to become the leader of the free world in the atomic age. The acting is really impressing. Especially Sinise as Truman, is really breathtaking, showing once and for all that he is undoubtly one of Hollywood`s most underestimated actors. The movie is also true to a great number of historical details, which improves the film even more. For all you historical and political junkies out there, this is a must see.