Sunday, September 6, 2009

Going Home.

TAKING CHANCE/ 2008
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This film was originally shown on HBO (cable). It's available on DVD. The story is based on a journal kept by Marine Lt.Col. Michael Strobl, a Desert Storm veteran, with 17 years of military service. The film and journal chronicle Strobl, played by an excellent Kevin Bacon, who volunteers to escort the body of the 19 year old slain Marine, Lance Corporal Chance Phelps, killed by hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, to his final resting place.
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Strobl was so moved by the outpouring of respect for the fallen Marine, that he decided to capture the experience in his journal, which became an Internet sensation before it was made into a movie. The journey from Iraq, taking Chance Phelps home, was made in 2004. The sad voyage is shown in the simplest terms. There isn't a false or embellished note, verbally or visually.
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Truly one of the best films I've ever seen dealing with the consequences of war. There is a great lesson about true selflessness and courage, and a very strong look at military rituals for honoring their war dead.
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At the end of the film, pictures and videos of the real Chance Phelps and his family are shown. Pure and honest film making of the highest order. The movie was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundown Film Festival for Best Drama.

6 comments:

Jeane Myers said...

wow Lyn, high praise - will add it to my netflix list - I'm not a fan of war films, but you haven't let me down yet! :)))

Lyn said...

Hi Jeane-
Thank you..yes, the only war films I care for seem to be "anti"..this is so much about respect, plus very good acting!

A Cuban In London said...

Another recommendation that I will be adding to my LoveFilm list. Many thanks.

Greetings from London.

Lyn said...

Greetings to a Cuban-
Thank you...I think this is one that will really touch you..

Unknown said...

Hi Lyn,

Glad you enjoyed this. It makes such a difference when a difficult subject can be explained with sympathy and tact. I'll have to see if it comes around on TV.

Lyn said...

Hi Derrick-
I appreciate your comment, and agree. It is difficult to observe sorrow and loss..the movie lets you feel it..

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