An Accidental Soldier (2013)

Very disappointing...

Excellent, Without a doubt!!

At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.

The story, direction, characters, and writing/dialogue is akin to taking a tranquilizer shot to the neck, but everything else was so well done.

Usually, I wonder if I should watch most Australian movies. They're either wonderful or terrible and rarely anything in between.It was a delight to watch an intelligent war movie for a change... in other words, one where it's clearly shown that war is one of greatest wrongs and absurdities of humanity.In running away from the war, an Australian baker, (never meant to go to the killing fields and yet does... supposed to be baking bread for the troops until too many soldiers are murdered and they need anyone they can get their hands on for cannon fodder,) he takes refuge with an older French woman and... although it sounds like a cliché and as if would all go downhill to Hollywood schmoo from there, it most certainly doesn't.Wonderfully directed by Rachel Ward, this is a kind, sensitive and gentle film that does not whitewash the foulness of war and yet doesn't invite us to partake of it, either.

I was a little hesitant to view this film, but it's a true keeper. It's on my hard drive where in all likelihood it will stay. And that is a rarity. This is essentially a low action movie, but it is truly atmospheric. All actors are superb and rather understated. I have no knowledge of Marie Bunel - she was simply wonderful in her portrayal of a French woman, struggling through through rural French life in World War 1. Dan Spielman is equally good. He found compassion for his role as a deserter. The scenery is finely chosen, and the direction unbelievably good. I know Rachel Ward has credits in varied production areas (including acting and directing) but she shows rare finesse here. Her husband is Brian Brown, who plays a lesser role. I have always thought he overcast, but he is much more restrained. Do yourself a favour and catch this. It's currently rating a 7.1 which certainly should indicate a watchable production. I can't think of a recent film I'd give a 10, but this one has that score.

Harry is a gentle soul who does not sign up to fight because he does not want to kill anyone, or anything. He is, in 1918, what would now be termed a Conscientious Objector but they certainly did not recognise that then. When he can no longer stand the pressure, he goes to war - but in his trade, as a baker. But things change not long after he arrives at the front, and he is forced to fight. After he deserts and is taken in by a French farm wife, his life changes. Dan Spielman plays the part of Harry beautifully and is very believable. The same goes for Marie Bunel as Colombe, the French farm wife. The film was skillfully directed by Rachel Ward and her husband, Bryan Brown, has a small but vital part in the latter part of the film. The French scenery was gorgeous and the cinematography was well executed. I loved this film because I cared about the characters and what would happen to them. My eyes were glued to the screen for the whole film. I highly recommend it.

True to period, people & place. Brilliantly done, a visual feast, very captivating & real in performance & visual detail. Refreshing realism in language barrier. Ward has used the medium to the utmost of ability to tell a deep & passionate story, without waste, pretension or fluff. Love it and know that I will be recalling the images for many years to come. I don't think I could have even begun to imagine that a french provincial, Great War movie could have been depicted in such a true fashion so simply & with as much detail. The actors whom I've not come across before, other than Zamiro, were outstanding, the cinematography captured facial expressions & personality beautifully. Loved the way words were almost irrelevant except as a tone of voice. Will be enjoyed & contemplated in many a conversation post viewing.