Review of All Quiet on the Western Front (1930) by Kai82 — 24 Nov 2021

A magnificent movie that captures the grim reality of war. It is based on the book of the same name from German author Erich Maria Remarque who actually served in World War 1. Both media are true classics and were banned back then in Germany as Hitler and the Nazi party were on the rise to power.

Remarque had to leave Germany, his citizenship nullified and he would be executed if the Nazis got him. By the way: As an enteral shame for Germany no one in the government after World War 2 attempted to reinstall his citizenship.

The movie is well crafted and delivers a timeless message. The story is set in World War 1. At school Professor Kantorek gives his near graduation class a passionate speech about the glory, honor and bravery to serve the fatherland in the army.

Impressed by this the whole class led by Paul Bäumer enlist in the army. They become members of the second company and are sent to the battlefields of the war. The cruel and grim reality of war will catch up to them.

The story is absolutely great. It completely destroys the illusions and fairy tales about war. For those who do not know or did no research: World War 1 was a nightmare. The war was stagnant as no side could overwhelm the enemy.

It became a meat grinder and trench warfare that wasted so many lives. Hundreds of thousands were send to their dead by ignorant leaders. Sabaton made a great song with “The Price of a Mile” that also captures this waste of lives.

Back to the review. It shows ruthless the suffering of the boys. It is dirty, grim, merciless and futility. The emotions and imagery are praiseworthy. In addition the great cast adds a lot to this. Lew Ayres as Paul Bäumer is mayor impressive.

He delivers the full emotional impact of the role. Arnold Lucy as Professor Kantorek has just a smaller role but was so good I remember him today. Also remarkable are William Bakewell as Albert Kropp, Ben Alexander as Franz Kemmerich and Louis Wolheim as Stanislaus (Kat) Katczinsky.

A truly great cast that improves the movie. I already praised the visuals and repeat that all sets look amazing. It enhances the atmosphere and seem real. The rest is history. It received the Oscar for the best movie and was forbidden in Germany by the Nazis.

The latter is an indicator how good and truthful it was. The movie became a timeless classic and is still often in the best movie list of all times. Not in the top 10 but near always in the top 100. In Germany where I live it is standard to watch this movie in school.

Overall this is a timeless classic and a must see for everyone. I recommend this movie for education alone.