I think I have seen both of the prior versions of this film but yesterday we watched this current version streamed via Netflix. I have to admit that I was not prepared for how great a film this really is . At almost 2 1/2 hours and with the film in spoken in German and 100% subtitles we were immersed in this film from start to finish. It is a gut wrenching look at the reality and brutality of war through the eyes of young and wet behind the ears of young German students who went from classroom to the war room thinking this would be an adventure and the naivety of their feelings until they reached the front line and their lives quickly turned.
So far this year my favorite movies as Oscar contenders were initially Elvis and the the Fabelmans. I hated Banshees and hated even more Everything, Everywhere. I also really liked The Whale but not as best movie but rather Brendan Fraser's role which will win him the Oscar. So also I like Tar but again for Cate Blanchett's portrayal which will also earn her the Oscar. What people see in Banshee's and Everything eludes me and judging from the Golden Globes and Critics' Choice Awards the favorite seems to be Everything.....I would suggest those interested with this remake of All's Quiet on the Western Front. For me this stands out as my vote for Best Film. Long film, but you won't be looking at your watch.
Thumb's up....way up