To End All Wars

[Lachlan09]

Did anyone here see that film (made several years ago) with Keifer Sutherland, Robert Carlyle, Ciarán McMenamin ? What did you think of it ?

[Sir William]

I've not only seen it, but own it. Its based on a true story.

On the whole I like it, but like most POW movies it is rather dark in perspective. Those who are familiar with how the Japanese treated Allied POWs will not be surprised at what people will do to survive, to include losing their grasp on civilized behavior.

I work POW/MIA issues so read books on POWs, evaders and the like, as well as watch the few films that have been made on the subject. I thought this film was one of the most realistic and not unlike "King Rat" in its examination of humanity.

On the plus side, from our perspective, there are quite a few kilt scenes throughout. The Regiment is seen marching off to war fully kilted, and then occasionally while they are in captivity you'll see a man still clinging to the remnants of his kilt.

[andyfg]

Yes. Very powerful film. I only saw it once, but will see it again. Thanks for reminding me. (Of course Robert Carlyle in a kilt is a bonus!)

[macwilkin]

As someone else mentioned, the movied is based on the story of Ernest Gordon, who was a POW along the infamous Rangoon to Bangkok Railway made famous by the (very historically inaccurate) movie, The Bridge on the River Kwai. Our old Presbyterian church had a copy of his book, Through the Valley of the Kwai in the parish library.

Gordon was a Dean at Princeton for a number of years:

http://www.princeton.edu/pr/news/02/q1/0121-gordon.htm

BTW, if anyone is interested in the true story of the Death Railway, the History Channel released an excellent documentary several years ago about what really happened, including the story of Col. Phillip Toosey, who unlike Col. Nicholson in the movie, did not collaborate with the Japanese.

Lest we forget.

Todd