War Horse

War Horse

Directed by Steven Spielberg

Starring: Jeremy Irvine, Emily Watson, Peter Mullan, Tom Hiddleston, Jeremy Thewlis

This 2011 movie is based on the children’s book written by Michael Morpurgo and the stage play produced in 2007. The movie is directed by Steven Spielberg and adapted for the screen by Lee Hall and Richard Curtis. Hall wrote the award-winning Billy Elliot which was nominated for three Oscars. Curtis was nominated for an Academy Award for writing Four Weddings and a Funeral. The film includes stars Jeremy Irvine, Emily Watson, Peter Mullan, Tom Hiddleston, and Jeremy Thewlis.

When his father sells his horse, Joey, to the army during the early days of World War I, Albert promises him that he’ll find him and bring him home. Separately the two embark on dangerous journeys as Albert enlists in the British army and heads to war. Joey begins his own journey as he carries a cavalry officer into battle. He soon becomes a tool for the other side as he’s captured during battle and put to work by the Germans. Albert struggles to stay alive in the bloody contact while never losing hope that Joey might be found. Albert is hoping against the odds as the trench warfare in Europe puts himself and Joey at risk. The story is filled with drama and adventure as the search comes to an end.

This is an emotional and gut-wrenching story. The talent of Spielberg is once again showcased as he brings the war to the big screen in magnificent style. The visual impact of the movie in incredible and works wonderfully with the drama unfolding in the story.

The acting in this film is also incredible. Jeremy Irvine transforms himself from a boy to a man throughout the film and plays his character passionately. He’s also surrounded by talent. Emily Watson is perfect as the worrying mother. The rest of the cast is also great as they come together to tell this fantastic story.

As a whole this was a great way to start the new year. The movie has some rough moments and since war is involved it’s tough to watch at times. Despite the tough scenes there is a redeeming quality to the story. This is a family film but you should probably make sure your kids are old enough to handle the war scenes. I give this movie 4.1 out of 5 stars.

Rating: PG-13

Running Time: 146 minutes