War Horse (2011)

Steven Spielberg is inarguably one of the best war film directors of all time. He brought to the screen the stories of Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan as well as producing the ultra-successful series Band of Brothers. Once again, the man proves that he can tell a powerful, beautiful story set amidst the chaos of war in War Horse.

War Horse follows the story of Joey, a thoroughbred horse who didn't have a hope until wistful farmer, Ted Narracott, bought him for a work horse. Ted's teenaged son Albert quickly forms a strong bond with Joey and raises and trains the horse himself. With the onset of the First World War, Ted becomes desperate for money and sells Joey to the British Cavalry. From there, Joey embarks on a harrowing journey to survive the war, aiding soldiers on both sides of the battle at one time or another. Albert, meanwhile, embarks on his own journey, enlisting in the British army and determinedly searching to find his horse.

The cast of War Horse is a mixed bag of talented newcomers and veteran actors, and all shine brightly in their roles. Taking on the hefty, powerful role of Albert is Jeremy Irvine, the film's notable newcomer. Irvine plays Albert with such passion that it becomes impossible to tell where the man stops and the character begins. Irvine's performance will undoubtedly leave you misty-eyed at least a handful of times throughout the film.

Peter Mullan and Emily Watson, both outstanding British actors in their own rights, play Albert's parents, Ted and Rosie Narracott. Mullan's performance is stoic yet touching, and he brings to life one of the film's more complex characters. Watson, as always, will make you laugh.

David Thewlis, who the younger generation will know as Lupin from Harry Potter, plays the Narracott's nasty landlord Lyons, whose constant belittlement of Joey and Albert only make you cheer them on even harder. Tom Hiddleston, from last year's Thor, plays the role of Captain Nicholls, the man who originally takes charge of Joey.

French actor Niels Arestrup plays a grandfather trying to see his orphaned granddaughter safely through the war and he unquestionably gives the audience the film's most uplifting moment. Celine Buckins plays his sassy and cute granddaughter.

Joey, of course, is played by multiple horses, all of whom are graceful, intelligent and beyond clever, bringing the heart of the story to the viewer.

There isn't one thing that makes War Horse a great film, there are many: the utter brutality of war is shown without restraint; the beauty and generosity of men; the courage of both man and beast; and the hope that, no matter the odds, you can survive even the most desperate situations.

Although it is difficult to watch at times, War Horse is by far one of the most touching war films in recent years. It is absolutely worth your time to watch this one.

Rating: 5 out of 5