Review of The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) by Mark K — 27 Oct 2010

Movies are a reflection of our society in real-time. The Best Years of Our Lives is one that spans multiple generations and does it so well, you'd think it was a new film, despite the black and white. In addition to tackling a tough issues facing of post-WW-II era soldiers and servicemen, it's also chock full of strong performances.

You have to view some of the hokum through the 1946 lens, but overall, it's a 'modern' looking film, and interesting in its triple storyline. Skillfully interwoven, these propel the movie forward at a good clip, and it only meanders slightly with some of the romantic aspects, but you are drawn in to the men's lives.

One of the protagonists is physically scarred (wonderfully played by Harold Russell in a brave, Academy Award-winning role)Fredric March plays a family man whose problem are more hidden; and Dana Andrews is in top form as a man in search of himself. It's very powerful stuff, the kind that only rarely gets done well in modern day film.

There some great sequences, and the story lines are tied up with satisfying endings. Robert Sherwoods smartly written script, combined with Wm. Wyler's direction and some nicely nuanced acting by everyone makes this a real winner, and not just of awards. Andrews is really terrific as Derry, who is really very charming, despite being a complete loser for a while.

Recommended.