Review of The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) by Joe L — 26 Apr 2009
At almost three hours long, it feels like a throwback to the silent, epic dramas of the late 1920's, but it's the first film to really deal with the both the social and economic struggles of soldiers returning home from war - and it's dealt with so honestly, and covers a range of socio-economic backgrounds, that you can't help but draw parallels to the struggles of subsequent and current war vets.
director william wyler previously won the oscar for his wartime great 'mrs. miniver,' and here he tackles war themes again, and much more skillfully - 'lives' skirts the edge, but never quite crosses over into propaganda the way 'miniver' did so unabashedly (though effectively).
and I just love teresa wright, who continues her streak of playing unforgettable, wholesome daughters, previously in 'shadow of a doubt,' and in her oscar winning performance in wyler's 'mrs.
miniver.'.
This review of The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) was written by Joe L on 26 Apr 2009.
The Best Years of Our Lives has generally received very positive reviews.
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