Midway (2019)

One of the best things about war films is that they tell the accounts of what happened. Historical war films like Full Metal Jacket, Saving Private Ryan, Hacksaw Ridge and Dunkirk are some of the best war films ever made. The passion, authenticity, and heart are what drove those films.  

Though the film is dazzling and historically significant, it is over the top when it comes to the special effects. This war film is one of a kind, but it seldom achieves what other films of this nature have accomplished. 

Like other war films, this film is another solidly entertaining war epic. History enthusiasts such as I, really appreciate films like this because they are emotionally enriching and stay true to the source material.

Acclaimed director Roland Emmerich makes a film that is good at capturing the rawness of war and the emotional impact of it. But, its reliance on the war CGI is not caused by excitement. This makes the film overloaded with just the visuals, which may be compelling, but not overly thrilling.

Starring in the film, is Patrick Wilson, Woody Harrelson and Nick Jonas. All three do an outstanding job of playing their real-life roles. They bring a lot to the film. It shows dramatically. Each of them does a great job of trying to bring to life the heroics of this courageous battle. Their performances are genuinely passionate and bring to life the war in stunning fashion, even if it’s a bit overdramatic.

Scoring the film is Thomas Wander. He does a great job of keeping the film entertaining. The score is just as dramatic as the film itself. It’s cross between an electronic score and a classy upbeat score. It keeps the film enjoyable to the highest levels.

Historically based films are a treasure. Some are very successful films, while others may not be. While this film is enjoyable, it is very reliant on the film’s visuals and not the story overall. This film is a good film, but it just fails to impress and be as memorable as other war films.

Rate: B-

Photo courtesy of Centropolis Entertainment

Director: Roland Emmerich 

Starring: Patrick Wilson, Woody Harrelson, Nick Jonas, 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for sequences of war violence and related images, language and smoking)

Runtime: 2 Hours & 20 Minutes 

Synopsis: MIDWAY centers on the Battle of Midway, a clash between the American fleet and the Imperial Japanese Navy which marked a pivotal turning point in the Pacific Theater during WWII. The film, based on the real-life events of this heroic feat, tells the story of the leaders and soldiers who used their instincts, fortitude and bravery to overcome the odds.