I’ve passed up on seeing the movie version of this book several times because I really don’t like Ethan Hawke. Way back when TLC and A&E were actually watchable there was a show call The Great Books. One episode was about Great Expectations. Hawke was interviewed because a movie version with him was coming out. Whatever he said convinced me that he really didn’t understand what he read. Combine that with I don’t think he can act, and well, there you go.
But I just might watch it now.
Wharton’s novel is All Quiet on the Western Front set in World War II with a dash of Catch-22. It is told from the viewpoint of a young sergeant who finds himself (and his men) in a rather confusing situation with some Germans. It’s true that some of the supporting characters could be more developed. The story, however, does grip the read, and the voice is compelling. You know how it’s going to end, you have to, but the book still moves you. It always will.
There’s something to be said for that.
It isn’t all depressing; there are some wonderful funny passages and scenes. It’s not about heroism, but about people struggling to be people. It is really good. Wonderful.
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