In January 1945 Private Eddie D Slovik became the only man shot for desertion by the United States Army since the American Civil War. This film shows Slovik's adult life, the twists, turns and decisions that lead to the event and how it unfolded.
An incredibly powerful drama. Shows well what lead to the execution of Private Slovik - his personal life, his decisions, the court martial process - and the execution itself. Most remarkable is how balanced it is: after seeing his view you have some sympathy for Slovik but you get to see and understand the US Army's side too. You are reminded of this conflict between empathy for Slovik's situation and the fact that scores of other soldiers are in a similar position as him but are willing to do their duty.
Quite sensitively told: no big empty speeches about duty and honour, no gung ho rants and the main characters on the US Army's side have no personal agenda - they're just following the process and doing their job.
Rounding it off, the execution scene is very realistic and emotional. Even if you are firmly of the view that justice is being served you can't help but be moved by the final few scenes.
Great work by Martin Sheen in the lead role. Solid supporting cast that includes Ned Beatty and Gary Busey. 8/9-year-old Charlie Sheen also gets some uncredited screen time.
An incredibly powerful drama. Shows well what lead to the execution of Private Slovik - his personal life, his decisions, the court martial process - and the execution itself. Most remarkable is how balanced it is: after seeing his view you have some sympathy for Slovik but you get to see and understand the US Army's side too. You are reminded of this conflict between empathy for Slovik's situation and the fact that scores of other soldiers are in a similar position as him but are willing to do their duty.
Quite sensitively told: no big empty speeches about duty and honour, no gung ho rants and the main characters on the US Army's side have no personal agenda - they're just following the process and doing their job.
Rounding it off, the execution scene is very realistic and emotional. Even if you are firmly of the view that justice is being served you can't help but be moved by the final few scenes.
Great work by Martin Sheen in the lead role. Solid supporting cast that includes Ned Beatty and Gary Busey. 8/9-year-old Charlie Sheen also gets some uncredited screen time.