All Quiet on the Western Front

Directed by Edward Berger with a screenplay by Lesley Paterson is this latest adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque’s novel about the harsh reality of the Western Front in the First World War. We meet four young German friends Paul, Albert, Franz and Ludwig (Felix Kammerer, Aaron Hilmer, Moritz Klaus, Adrian Grünewald) emboldened by the Kaiser’s nationalistic fervour they are desperate to fight the threats to the Fatherland. However, they quickly discover that “marching into Paris” is a long way from the romantic ideal that’s sold to them. We follow the harsh realities of the final period of the war as well as the armistice negotiations and the foreboding warnings of where that will lead.

The novel is an anti-war story and the German language adaptation does not underplay the horror of very young men sent to fight in conditions that we can’t comprehend. What it tries to paint is a grim picture of trench warfare and it does an outstanding job. It looks and sounds incredible providing an immersive visceral experience, the cinematograpy often putting you in the heart of the action or conversation.

The storytelling balance is perfect balancing the horror of war with the human reality of its impact. That human reality is where the films real power lies. This is is an intensely human story of relationships forged in the worst of circumstances. We also see the fragility of life and the casual disregard for it from those in charge.

More than a war story this is about relationships, friendships and humour and of course the impact of loss. The humanity is essential in making us care.

Full of excellent performances with the outstanding young leads brilliantly supported by Albrecht Schuch (Kat), Edin Hasanovic (Tjaden) and Daniel Bruhl.

All Quiet on the Western Front is stunning, visually impressive with an evocative score. It shows the grim reality of trench warfare and the casual disregard for life from those at the front and those in charge. But it never forgets it is a film about relationships and humanity in the most complex and difficult circumstances.