Review of The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) by Tommy H — 15 Apr 2015

The movie is fun, the script is great, and I enjoyed every actors performance. I liked how all the British prisoners were charmingly stubborn, and they even made the enemy somewhat sympathetic which doesn't happen very often in old war films.

Unfortunately, I didn't like this as a war film. I watch movies like this for many of the reasons religious people watch religious movies. They watch them to be inspired, and to see an example of a truly pious and virtuous man. The type of man all religious people wish they could be but very few are. A role modal that is "close to God." Typically, they also get examples of how to be a proper sinner and shameful. Both archetypes act as guides for the viewers own journey of self-discovery, self-improvement and self-empowerment.

The most meaningful reason I watch war movies is to be inspired. To see an example of a man with a strong character, strong principles, and is virtuous and dignified in times of war. Most men in old war movies are presented as so heroic and courageous; it's something I can never fully be, but something I can always strive for. It teaches you how to be a "real man," a term that's a misnomer because all men are real, but when I see old war movies calling them real men because of their nobility just seems right. It's more a badge of honor than a literal definition.

My problem with The Bridge On The River Kwai is the men are honorable in a very pro-British way, but in times of war the rules of life change and so should attitudes. Many events and ideas in the film contradict everything I've learn from other war movies. I can respect the men, but not as men in a war. If this was anything but a war movie I would have more appreciation for the movies British-centric sensibilities. I'm still giving the movie 5 stars, though. If it was intended to be a training video for real soldiers I'd give it a thumbs down.