Review of Das Boot (1981) by Jeremy W — 19 Feb 2010

OH my is this one loooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong. This masterpiece is not a movie its a experience. Almost never can I sit for more than 2 hrs with out being pushed away by excessive pauses and never ending dialogue. This film which is 7 minutes short of 5 hrs did not do that to me. Everything kept me connected to the characters and their dreadful circumstances. This is the best Sub film I have ever seen and one of the best war films too.

Das Boot is an epic movie based on the experiences a group of German navy men endured while WWII. They spend most of their time lost at sea during horrible storms, or coming extremely close to tragedy at the hands of their adversary's. While holed up in their German U boat searching for the enemy and trolling the waters around the English channel. Disgusted with the way the war is unfolding and wanting nothing more but to make their leader and country proud they do what they can what ever the consequences.

The acting was superb on all fronts even with the slightly odd overdubs in the English version, but I quickly forgot about them. I could feel their terror, aggravating confinement, and affection they had for each other throughout every tense moment. I found myself hoping for their narrow escape even though they were the bad guys.

In my opinion Wolfgang Petersen has made nothing short of a classic as director and writer based on the novel. He made me feel I was with them on their German U boat sinking to the bottom of the ocean fearing for my life. If I wasn't looking at the clock I would have not known how fast the time was going. The next time I watch it I will watch the original version which is 149 minutes and cut the 2 1/2 extra hours out.

This movie immerses you into the world of these men and wont let you go until its all done. When it comes to war films you usually see it face to face bullets flying and physical torture they deal with on the front lines. This film clearly portrays the emotional terror felt when at war with unknowns around every corner. I must recommend this film to everyone it is fantastic.

Watch what ever version you want but I am glad I saw the 5 hr version.

Nominated for 6 Oscars. Another 5 wins & 4 nominations.