Review of Attack (1956) by Allan C — 19 Feb 2015

Strong little war film from director Robert Aldrich, which was produced without the support of the Department of Defense, which was the custom for most every Hollywood war film of the time. What separated this film from most war pictures is that it wasn't the usual "war is hell" type of anti-war film, but it took an even more cynical stance, telling the story of an incompetent and cowardly company commander, real-life war hero Eddie Albert, who rose to his rank through political connections and influence.

His commanding officer, the great Lee Marvin, knows Albert is incompetent and is responsible for getting his men killed, but protects Albert so that Albert's politically connected father will help Marvin out after the war.

It's a great set-up and the main character of the film is the battle hardened soldier played by Jack Palance who knows Albert is a danger to the company and has the respect of the other men, played by Robert Strauss, Richard Jaeckel and Buddy Ebsen.

My only fault with the film is that Albert and Palance go too over-the-top by the end of the film, Albert becoming a complete snivelling weasle and Palance becoming an animal. Though this fits the film's overall theme that war has the capability to drive people to extremes, dramatically it plays out as a bit ridiculous.

Still, this film has an amazing strong cast, some powerful theme (especially considering the time period), and some tautly directed action sequences.