All Quiet on the Western Front

Lewis Milestone, USA, 1930, 131 minutes

All Quiet on the Western Front is the most famous anti-war film ever made. Adapted from Erich Maria Remarque's novel, it focuses on a group of German teenagers who excitedly sign up to fight for their country in World War One after hearing their teacher speak enthusiastically for the cause. The boys' enthusiasm however soon vanishes when they come face to face with the reality of warfare. Bombings, gas attacks and hand-to-hand combat destroy any romantic views that might linger in their minds. On the Western front, death is almost obligatory.

An acknowledged masterwork, this film has over the years retained almost all of its potency. It works particularly well on the human level, transcending cultures and generations with its all-powerful pacifist message. Lewis Milestone's direction is very effective and the photography is simply unforgettable. The battle scenes aregruesomely realistic; nothing is glossed over.

A profoundly moving picture, All Quiet is required viewing for every single human being, especially those who still cling to the belief: "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori".

Review by Stephen Townsend
Taken from EUFS Programme 1992-93