Unbroken
Patrick Brent
Patrick Brent Author, journalist and hotelier
Where and with whom did you see the movie?
I saw the film at Consolidated Ward 16 Christmas morning by myself.
Overall, what did you think?
It was a great book, but the movie failed to capture it.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
One of my favorite scenes was the flight time with Army Air Corps bombers.
The aerial combat scenes were some of the best I have viewed.
The first half of movie had momentum; the second half needed Steven Spielberg’s vision.
This incorrigible still finds Angelina Jolie far, far better looking than Spielberg.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
★★.
What did you think of the cinematography?
I would give it a six out of 10.
Was the message/theme clear?
Yes. Affirmative. President Calvin Coolidge once said: “Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” Clearly, his quality is echoed in Jolie’s
new film Unbroken.
Did it remind you of any other works of film?
It reminded me of The Bridge on the River Kwai, which was done far better.
Who would you recommend this movie to?
I would recommend it to Japanese and military buffs.
Did any of the actors stand out?
The star Jack O’Connell’s performance was gifted.
Did you identify with any of the characters?
The American commanding officer of the POW barracks reminded me of U.S. Marines I have known.
Did the sound-track contribute significantly to the film?
No.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?
No.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
I am a Marine. I do not eat snacks.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
I just edited a new book, A Marine called Gabe, by Ralph Bates. (It tells the story) of Marine Gen. John A. Lejeune.
It’s a must-read at Amazon.com.
