Review of The Red Badge of Courage (1951) by Anna N — 11 Oct 2007

"The Red Badge of Courage" is John Huston's film based on Stephen Crane's novel. It follows the story of Henry Fleming, a soldier in the Union army during the American Civil War. The film features impressive scenes and sweeping shots along with an excellent score that is somber or tense as needed.

This film's characterizations are its main strength. The film carefully and convincingly portrays the fear, courage and camaraderie of men at war. Audie Murphy is perfect as Henry Fleming, a soldier who tries to show a brave face before his first battle, but privately harbors doubts about his courage. Henry's fellow soldiers are all well-developed, distinct and interesting characters as well. Andy Devine's cameo as a genial soldier was memorable and he had a number of clever lines. Tim Durant also memorably played the energetic general overseeing the soldiers.

The film is short at 69 minutes and has enough story content to keep it interesting. The battle scenes in the film are well-shot, although not among the best in Civil War films. However, the final battle scene makes a strong impression. "The Red Badge of Courage" is a short but notable Civil War film that depicts the trials soldiers face in war.