While somewhat stereotypical, I get the sense they are supposed to be that way, to show that the majority of US soldiers were “average Joes”.īeing a WWII buff I paid special attention to details of insignia, weapons, vehicles etc and must give the film high praise for authenticity. The group of unknown actors do an excellent job of portraying the soldiers. Made on a shoe-string by American Ryan Little, it examines themes that many war films have before: what fighting and killing does to a man, how we dehumanise the enemy, and how when you get down to it for the most part “the enemy” are just like us. Saints and Soldiers proves that you don’t need grand, epic battles or a big budget to make a good war movie. I knew of the Malmedy Massacre in (very) general terms, but my interest was so sparked I decided to do some more research.
The film states it is “Based on True Events” which sparked my curiosity, given my interest in all things Second World War. Saints and Soldiers tells the story of a group of US soldiers in World War II who survive the infamous Malmedy Massacre and, stuck behind enemy lines, must find their way back to friendly forces.
