Among the eclectic assortment of movies released during the 90’s, Saving Private Ryan is one that has stood the test of time. One of the more frequently played movies on TNT and available on “On Demand”, Steven Spielberg’s classic is arguably the most popular World War II drama ever.
The action starts immediately within the first few minutes of the film as the 2nd Ranger Battalion invades the beaches of Normandy. The mysterious Captain Miller, played by Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks, leads the young and diverse unit. After taking the beach, the battalion is surprised with information that is not standard operating procedure. They are ordered to find and retrieve a private by the name of James Ryan whose three brothers were killed in combat across the two fronts of war. It is 2nd Battalion’s responsibility to find the soldier and bring him home. Thus begins an epic tale accounting the unique mission of the search and rescue of the lone namesake for an Iowan family.
Spielberg intricately details his film to depict Europe during World War II and what it actually looked like. Therefore, the heroism and beauty in war is shown in conjunction with uncensored evil and gore. For instance, the opening scene reenacting the Allied invasion of Normandy can be described as nothing less than a blood bath. Spielberg evidently intended to create a bold film that illustrated war in its least romantic form. However, Saving Private Ryan is not just blood and guts; the film is crafted appropriately so that the true essence of the film, the depth and struggle of its characters, validates the intention of the gruesome battle scenes. In other words, the film is not a one-dimensional action movie with shallow aims of entertainment through its explosive scenes, the typical show business gimmick that many directors employ when making such a movie. Rather, Saving Private Ryan is a movie of substance, particularly about transcending the differences we may have in order to strive for a common goal, as the 2nd Ranger Battalion does in their efforts to save Private Ryan. It is the deeper message of the film along with the action that contributes to its efficacy and appeal for the ages.
Saving Private Ryan is ranked #39 overall on Imdb.com’s “top 250 movies of all time” list and critically acclaimed, receiving 92% of positive reviews on RottenTomatoes.com.