Review of The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) by Groucho G — 11 Sep 2008
A very moving picture about 3 veterans returning home from the war. One is a banker with a family that he has to get to know all over again, another is a double amputee who's family has to learn to live with this new disability, and the 3rd is a former air force captain who now must return to his job as soda jerk.
It's the 3rd character who proves most interesting. His wife, whom he married right before he left to go overseas, is shallow and only interested in going out to nightclubs and being seen with her soldier husband (when he tries to dress in a regular suit, she insists he put on the uniform so she might show him off for her friends).
The three soldiers shared an airplane ride back to their home town and from there on they become friends. The movie is a story of their trials and tribulations in adjusting again to civilian life after serving their country for so many years.
Also of note is the great care the filmmaker goes in showing scenes of the times: the bobbysox, the dance floors, the soda fountains, it all seems less like movie sets and more like real life settings.
Something of a historical artifact, like almost travelling back in time to 1946.
This review of The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) was written by Groucho G on 11 Sep 2008.
The Best Years of Our Lives has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
