Retro style War movie with a bit of irreverence to make it popular for 1980’s movie goers. It is sure-fire entertainment for war movie buffs, with a subtle sarcasm and left-field humor that gives it a broader appeal. A few deep scenes reminds you that war sometimes has a valid purpose.
Ah, Lee Marvin. What a naturally gruff sergeant he makes. “Don’t worry Smitty, it’s just a personnel mine. It’s designed to castrate you, not kill you.†Indeed. Robert Carradine is great as the subtly sarcastic private who narrates much of the goings on.
A little cheesy, with a Planet of the Apes style soundtrack with requisite snare and base drum sequences. I understand that this was one of the last true classic Hollywood war films – and it definitely has that feel. I’m glad we have graduated to more hard hitting war films, but I remain nostalgic for the old style as well.