8.3.14

The Monuments Men Movie Is Worth Watching

By Jaclyn Hurley


The Monuments Men movie is set during World War Two. It has an all star cast headed by George Clooney. Clooney also directed the film and co wrote and produced it with Grant Heslov. It it certainly not the typical war production that focuses on action, guns and battles. Instead this thoughtful story tackles a topic that is hugely important but gets very little publicity.

In addition to Clooney, other big name stars include Matt Damon, Bill Murray, Cate Blanchett and Hugh Bonneville. They all do an outstanding job of making this film very memorable. It manages to hit the right note considering the nature of the topic, yet never taking itself too seriously. In addition, the locations and sets are perfect. They really capture the feel of Europe in 1943 when the war was at its peak.

After the outbreak of the war Hitler's German war machine marched over much of Europe. Small countries like Belgium and Holland did not stand a chance and were occupied almost immediately. Even France proved no match for the massive forces that rumbled towards them and half of their territory became occupied. On Hitler's order officers began to seek out and loot valuable works of art including pictures, sculptures and much more.

Both the British and American governments were aware of the large scale looting and realized that something had to be done. It was becoming clear that the Allies were most likely going to be victorious, even if the end of the war was still years away. But what would that victory be worth if most of the art treasures of western civilization were lost for ever.

As it became increasingly clear that the allies were winning and ultimately Germany would be defeated the need to find the treasures became ever more intense. To add to the pressure Hitler had issued what is known as the Nero decree. This stated that on his death or the fall of the Reich, all art treasures in German possession were to be destroyed. Knowing this the allied teams were working against the clock.

Despite its attempts at humor the film does an outstanding job of highlighting one of the forgotten aspects of war. The collateral damage suffered by nations and their innocent people. There are frequent reminders of the absolute devastation suffered by much of Europe at this time and the enormous scale of human suffering.

Among the popular faces are George Clooney, who also directed the film. This really was a labor of love for him as he also co wrote and produced it in partnership with Grant Heslov. It was made by the ever popular Columbia Pictures and 20th Century Fox studios and released on February 7 after premiering at the Berlin Film Festival.

Overall the movie achieves its goal of educating the public about one of the forgotten aspects of war. It also touches on topics such as the treatment of Jews at the hands of the Nazi's when the men find bags of gold fillings along with works of art. It moves along nicely and has enough humor to keep audiences entertained.




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