Quick Movie Reviews
Rating of
4/4
Logan D. McCoy - wrote on 05/28/2019
It wouldn't be an overstatement to say this is one of the greatest and most important war films ever made.
Rating of
4/4
SteelCity99 - wrote on 04/21/2018
Extraordinary. Few but David Lean would be capable of transforming a war story into a mainstream story with classic adventure elements, smashing performances and a climax so intense and influential that directors like Sergio Leone would grab immediately. It had been two months since I first saw it and I was still whistling the tune in the school hallways. "Madness! Madness!" 97/100
Rating of
3/4
Indyfreak - wrote on 02/16/2015
David Lean's mammoth WW2 epic often feels stretched too thin to justify its running time and that's because it is often stretched too thin to justify its running time. But the scale of the production and the strength of its cast are highly commendable. You have to see the cinematography and the action scenes to believe how wonderful they are staged. 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' is a decent enough war epic that is occasionally impressive but is mostly underplotted compared to its dazzling spectacle.
Rating of
3.5/4
Unknown - wrote on 08/27/2012
Gripping drama about individuals in wartime. An all-around well made film that holds up nicely today. The ending is just great.
Rating of
4/4
SIngli6 - wrote on 11/07/2011
David Lean's tale of misguided allegiances and nugatory tragedies aims not to dwell on war so much as bad as an inexplicable absolute that affects humans in ways that our feeble minds cannot possibly predict until we literally see the consequences unfold before our eyes. This commendably thoughtful view is complemented by Lean's keen visual eye and Alec Guinness' tender and ultimately terrifying lead performance.
Rating of
4/4
mitchellyoung - wrote on 09/12/2011
A roaring adventure story that captures heroism, both on the battlefield and in war camps. It features a brilliant ensemble cast, powerful cinematography, and a triumphant score. One of the best war films ever made.
Rating of
4/4
patjohnson76 - wrote on 02/20/2011
A great classic that not only holds well with age, it should be used as standard for any war time film to measure up to. Great performances by Alec Guinness and William Holden, both in their prime here, drive this story of imprisoned WWII British soldiers forced to build a bridge for their Japanese captors, and the American serviceman who's put on a mission to destroy it. Today's audience may find the end a bit anti-climatic but it finds perfectly with the tone of the film, and the tone of the times. A bit lengthy (also a sign of the times) so be sure to watch when you can really settle in and get into it.
Rating of
3/4
gideon43 - wrote on 06/03/2010
An undeniable classic that as the years roll by seems to get better and better. As much a movie about pride, conflict and integrity than it is warfare, Bridge on the River Kwai portrays a remarkable battle of wills between strong richly defined characters, yet the pace and structure never flags and is relentlessly gripping. Outstanding performances, lush Cinematography and the instantly recognisable Colonel Bogey march make this a constantly rewarding experience at every viewing.
Rating of
4/4
sapien - wrote on 11/08/2008
This is one of the coolest movies I've ever seen. The emotional torment that Alec Guiness' character must have went through as he is forced to blow up HIS bridge that HE built had to be an incredible pain. Loved it, absolutely LOVED it! Great flick!
Rating of
0.5/4
Allison - wrote on 12/23/2007
I was never interested in this film, but saw it for its classic status. Unfortunately, I didn't "get" it or like it that much. I'm a girl though. Don't take my word.
