Finding films like these is the greatest buzz from doing this blog. If it wasn’t for a little digging I don’t believe I would have ever seen this. It’s a beautiful thought provoking and poignant film. An anti-war, a coming of age film, it has drama and mystery, it’s a gem and I really can’t recommend it highly enough.
Six members of an American intelligence unit are sent during Christmas time 1944 to patrol an area of woodland during the build up to the Battle of the Bulge. Taking up residence in a chateau building they take turns keeping guard and gathering information of any enemy movements to report back to HQ.
Not long into their patrols they discover a strange acting squad of Germans hiding out not far from their own base. A series of bizarre little meetings between the two groups begin as they try to figure each other’s moves and motivations.
Featuring a stellar cast of young up and coming actors, you have Ethan Hawke (White Fang, Gattaca) as Sergeant Will Knott, hilariously referred to as Won’t. Gary Sinise (Forrest Gump, Apollo 13) is Mother, Vance Wilkins. Peter Berg (Fire In The Sky) plays Bud Miller. Johnny “Drama” Chase aka Kevin Dillon is Corporal Mel Avakian and Frank Whaley (Luke Cage) plays Father, Paul Mundy alongside Arye Gross (in a million TV shows) making up the sixth member of the gang, Stan Shutzer.
It’s a film of deep morals and friendship during the harsh situation of war.It is narrated by Ethan Hawke and with that and a few scenes dotted throughout I felt it gave it a slight Stand By Me feel for the older generation. I absolutely loved this film, it’s very compelling and well written, giving a great sense of wonder whilst watching. It’s been part of my constant thoughts for a few weeks now. If you like war films and you get the chance to track this underrated gem out, let me know your thoughts.
Oh and check this very haunting but bliss and mellow folk lullaby.
Sam Phillips – It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
Further Reading Links
Roger Ebert “A Midnight Clear” Review 1992
Goodreads “A Midnight Clear” Novel by William Wharton
