War Horse- (2011)

Millions of men and horses were killed in the first world war.   For over four years men and animals died from bullets, gas, barbed wire, and all manner of causes.  But despite this some survived, some with injuries to both mind and body.  But there are sometimes happy endings, aren't there?

War Horse takes stage on the English countryside of Devon. Albert (played masterfully by Jeremy Irvine) takes it upon himself to break the the free-spirited horse, Joey, after his father buys him on a whim. But when war breaks out the soldiers are in need of horses, and his father is in desperate need of money.    Therefore, Joey must go to a place that all people fear--the battle ground.

As Joey is captured by the Germans he is forced to pull heavy artillery, an activity that usually kills horses within the month.  Can Joey survive the living hell of war?  Will he emerge alive as a hero; as a war horse?


This movie was beautifully made and gives the war an authentic portrayal while giving the viewers something to bond to--Joey, the horse, and Albert, a young man attached to his friend, his horse.  The acting was great and storyline, though perhaps a bit predictable and unbelievable, was satisfying. The story gave the viewers something to love, and kept it from being horribly depressing, like WWI really was. 

It does have a PG-13 rating for very real war violence, though not very graphic, and some language, 
but still I give the heart lifting War Horse 3 1/2stars

Master and Commander-The Far Side of the World

-Watch Trailer
Napoleon is at war with Europe and the HMS "Surprise" is out on the ocean when its attacked be a much larger and more advanced French ship.    The "Surprise" is only saved by escaping into the fog and eluding their enemy.

But the Captain of the English ship, "Lucky" Jack Aubrey isn't content with just escaping.  But with a daring plan and masterful navigation plans to capture the French vessel.  But at an enormous risk to the lives of every soul aboard the "Surprise"

This movie was really enjoyable for me (a guy) because the captain shows fearless determination and leadership.  And the engages between the two ships is both intense and exciting.  The movie at the same time rather long, and at points hard to follow.  The acting however is well done and includes: Russel Crowe(Gladiator), Paul Bettany(Priest), and Billy Boyd(Lord of the Rings).

Warnings:  The battle scenes are pretty bloody and of the men that go under the docters knife are covered in blood. One man commits suicide and there is some foul language scattered throughout.

So I giving the intense  "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World-4 stars

True Grit

Some of you might remember the older "True Grit" with John Wayne playing "Rooster" Cogburn.   But I was surprised on how well this remake was done.   

The story goes something like this:    Mattie Ross' father is shot and killed by hired hand Tom Chaney, and her mission is to see him hanged.  But the 14 year old needs a man with "True Grit" to track down the criminal.  That man? U.S marshal "Rooster" Cogburn.  An alcoholic who knows how to capture a fugitive.  Or at least kill him in the attempt.  A Texas Ranger also joins the hunt, trying to bring Chaney to justice for shooting in Texas.

The film keeps you engaged throughout and makes you feel as if you were really in the setting.   The fighting scenes are intense, and the interchanges between the characters are interesting,although maybe a little hard to follow.   This film also boasts of good acting by Matt Damon and Jeff Bridges.

Warnings:   There is some pretty bloody scenes and the marshal is drunk in a some parts.  There is also a few swear words scattered throughout the film. 

I loved this movie and liked it even better than the old version.   4 1/2 stars for a mans "True Grit".