REEL CRITIC:’Flags’ is a tribute to those who fought

If you are a history buff who enjoys epic features about World War II, then you should enlist to see “Flags of Our Fathers.”

The film tells the complete story behind the famous photograph of the six soldiers raising the American flag on the island of Iwo Jima during World War II. “Flags of Our Fathers” is based on a book written by James Bradley. Bradley’s dad, John Bradley, was one of the Marines in the Pulitzer Prize-winning picture.

Because this is a war movie, many people may compare it to recent projects like “Saving Private Ryan,” but it stands out on it’s own because of Clint Eastwood’s unique style of directing. The entire plot is interwoven with various flashbacks of the three main characters. Usually, I’m not a big fan of this type of filmmaking, but Eastwood pulls it off with adroitness. Since the film is historically accurate, we already know the outcome of the battle, and the flashbacks actually help propel the story forward.

The cinematography and sound are astounding and you feel like you are part of the invasion when the Marines storm the island. There are many bloody battle scenes that are extremely uncomfortable to watch, and the brutality of war is highlighted. This is not an afternoon popcorn flick. “Flags of Our Fathers” is a serious movie for adults, but high-school students should see the film as a history lesson.

The acting performances are solid but don’t overshadow the story. The real stars are the script and Eastwood’s direction. I believe he has a great chance of being nominated for an Oscar.

I highly encourage all senior citizens to attend a screening. I called my dad and told him to round up his golfing buddies for a trip to the cinema but not to drink too many sodas because the film lasts for more than two hours.

“Flags of Our Fathers” will affect everyone differently. The reason we have our freedom is because of the sacrifice of the generations before us. It’s important we pay homage to these individuals. This film is a tribute to the thousands of Americans who gave up everything so you and I could live in a free society.

Is this the best World II movie ever made? That’s debatable, but the history of our nation is something we should never forget, or take for granted.

I salute “Flags of Our Fathers” and the men it honors.