1st article in our 5 week series on the War Film Genre
By Open Book
In celebration of the debut of our sister site FromPagetoSilverScreen (a collection of avid readers and devoted movie goers come together to discuss and improve their literary and film connoisseurship skills). Each week on LIH we are doing a five week-long series on the War Film genre. Why? The book we are currently reviewing on FromPagetoSilverScreen is an International Bestselling novel by author Paullina Simons entitled The Bronze Horseman. The book was adapted by Simons herself and in pre-production, with a scheduled film release date of 2012.
The Bronze Horseman is an impossible love story that takes place in 1941 Leningrad when Hitler first invades Russia. Faced with unimaginable circumstances two people meet by chance and are instantly ripped apart by family, War and Communist Russia. Soon the two lovers realize they can’t be together without great life or death sacrifices. Litllebells one of our authors on LIH recommended this book and said “this love story is Doctor Zhivago on steroids.” Filled with desire, obstacles and deep yearning, the avid reader will not be bored or disappointed. So in highlighting our series on War films, for this article we will look at Why We Love Romance & War Films? However, to start things off, here’s a song we think best represents this beautiful love story. Please enjoy!
What is it about War that bring couples together? Perhaps it’s the thought of never seeing each other again that throw people into each others arms? However, why do we love watching Romance & War films? Perhaps they re-establish our hope and faith in humanity and reaffirms in us what really matters in life? After all, the two expressions (Love & War) represent the best and worst of mankind. The first War film was in 1898 called Tearing Down the Spanish Flag it was produced in response to the Spanish-American War.[1] War films often depict soul searching, tragic consequences, survival and tales of gallant sacrifices.[2] Many War films produced during the 1940’s centered around Romance, Casablanca considered by many the best Romance film of all time, came out in 1942 around World War II. Romance often centers on, young and old, forbidden, sacrificial and tragic love. Often War/Romance provides the perfect contrast for epic movie making.[3] Listed below are our Top 10 Romantic War Films.
- Casablanca (1942)
- Dr. Zhivago (1965)
- Gone With The Wind (1939)
- From Here to Eternity (1953)
- Enemy at The Gates (2001)
- The English Patient(1996)
- Cold Mountain(2003)
- Atonement(2007)
- A Very Long Engagement(2004)
- Mrs.Miniver(1942)
What are some of your favorite Romance/War films and why?
Please join us for this discussion on Thursday 10/6/2011@7pE/12UTC
comicreleaf
comicrelief2
Comic Relief
parisienne
littlebells
Lurker
ozzie20
Open Book
LIH
linkedinhollywood.com 
HAHAHAHA!!! I just about fell out of my chair reading my quote! HAHAHAHA!! 🙂 I got really deep there, didn’t I? 😉
Great introduction for both the book site and the series, OB!
Thank u LB.
However, I must say I have really enjoyed reading TBH series. I’m so greatful u recommended this book for our first book to review. Truly it’s been wonderful to read and very spiritually uplifting. I can go on but I will wait until our discussion tomorrow.
How has this book/series affected u?
Do you have a few days? 🙂
Honestly I don’t know where to begin. Between the spiritual lessons, life experiences and personal growth, and the need to communicate it ultimately has made me want to work harder in my marriage.
It has also reaffirmed also something I already believe in: family is the most important thing in this world and you have to fight for it! Every day the world will try and rip the family apart and it succeeds in many cases. We have to fight for who we love and if that means giving up certain careers, houses, cars, hobbies, etc…then do it. None of those things matter in the end. (I will have much much more to say once we review the final book.)
How inspiring LB. It’s been a long time since I read a fictional book that has resonated in me so profoundly.
Since this book is being made into a film. What is it about TBH u think will appeal to todays audiences?
That is exactly how I feel. Do you think it resonates with us because of our own inner beliefs? Experiences? I’ve been trying to figure it out.
Well for men, I think it might be the actual fighting itself. Most guys love tanks, guns, bombs, grenades, explosions…I think they may actually enjoy the romance because it’s not fluffy. It’s a real love story and men get hurt, stressed out frustrated, and annoyed just like women when they are in love but obstacles stand in their way.
For women, well I think the initial love story will be the draw. And again, it’s the reality of the love story that is so captivating. Love isn’t easy, but when it’s good it’s gooooooooood! 🙂 I think women will be interested in the dynamics between the family members and watching Tania grow from this unaware teen to an amazingly strong and willful woman.
I think both audiences will enjoy the annoyingly selfish Dimitri. I think we have all known someone like him at some point in our life. That’s why we can’t stand these characters…Mmmm…what else? I’m sure there is more!
Well put LB-
I could not have said it better myself.
Hi Everyone,
Welcome to our discussion tonight. I hope u get a chance to also visit our new sister site as well. Tonight we will be discussing the book that has inspired this series on War film genre. The Bronze Horesman, if u have not read the book that’s o.k. there is still time. But tonight u can discuss why u like romance & war films or why u think they are so popular among consumers?
We’ve discussed this briefly on the PagetoSilverScreen site. Who would u like cast to play Alexander & Tatiana?
Hi, everyone.
Hi CR
Nice to see u!
Hi CR and OB!
HOpe you aren’t freezing like I am. Although I doubt something in the 60s is deemed freezing…
Freezing in the 60’s? LOL! Not even close!!!!
Yeah, I figured! HAHAHAHA!! 🙂
Hi CR, OB and everyone else here! Got to chatch up.
Hi Oz & LB!
Nice to see u…..
Hi Ozzie.
Nice to see (hear) you too.
Oooooh, OB…here is my dilemma. Paullina Simons, the author, has done an incredible job of not only giving such detailed characterization of her protagonists, but allows us to create our own version in our mind using the qualities and quirks given to us. Honestly, I do not know who I would cast. I am very passionate about these characters. And let me state, I am passionate, not obsessed. I won’t lose my shizznatch if someone were cast that portrayed the character less than desirable, but I would be ticked.
Having said that, I would prefer unknowns or someone relatively new to the HW scene. Big stars would kill it. Sorry, that’s just my opinion. Hmm…trying to find the right words. I don’t want someone’s star studded power, scandals, etc…tainting these beloved characters.
Do you have any in mind???
Well I go back and fourth between it being an unknown and picking someone who would really do the part of Alexander justice. Yes! He’s an Italian American who’s moved to Russia. Yes, he’s tall, muscular, and tan. These are all the physical characteristics we know can be achieved through costumes, CGI, makeup and a good work out. Yet, what is the most important is the internal cerebral manifistation of this character. I would really like to see RP play Alexander. I think he could embody and bring to life this character with ease.
Really???? And that’s not saying I don’t think he couldn’t do it. I’m just surprised. I can internally see him doing the part justice, but I’m having a hard time with the physical visual…Hmmm…Dang’t now I will have to spend time thinking of him as Alexander. 😉
It’s just my opinion.
No it’s a good opinion. I would love to see it happen. I think that would be a great role for him.
I don’t see RP as Alexander either. I don’t know who else I’d pick though. For Taitana, I picture Sarah Gadon or Elizabeth Olsen.
Would u like Alexander portrayed by an Italian actor?
I’m really not sure. I have an image in my head but it’s hard to explain. I’m searching through IMDB to see if I can find someone who looks like him in my mind, lol!
Remember looks can be altered with make-up. However, to embody this character it will take someone with great charisma and gravitational pull for these intense longing scenes Simons has written about so well. To me RP has that in spades.
That is true! I’ll have to think about it. 🙂
Open Book,
I agree on RP playing Alexander…somewhat. I just cannot see him playing Alexander. I picture someone more like Mark Consuelos. Kelly Ripa’s husband.
CR-
I know u have not read this book. Do u have any Romance War films u like?
OB (and Paris if she were here),
Do you think CR would enjoy this series?
Hi Paris!
CR u are going to get grilled tonight. LOL!!
If you look below you will see two examples I posted. Obviously I don’t hate the genre, most of the time I just tend to be motivated by other things.
But despite the many hostile people “AH”OB”em” on this site, romance is a really cool genre. In fact I’m sure I’ve posted other videos before so I must watch the stuff.
By the way I hear great things about the Bronze Horseman. I bet it would make a great movie.
Hmmm, give me a minute.
OB,
I’ve seem “Cold Mountain” at least three times. The late Anthony Minghella was an incredible director. Sorry we won’t see anything else from him.
What is it about Cold Mountain u like?
JINX!!! You owe me a diet Pepsi!
THis was a very good movie. Although I have only seen it once, so I may need to rent it.
CR, what is it about this story and it’s characters that you enjoyed so much?
No problem!! Hour glass starts. NOW!
That’s hard to say………probably all of the longing. The romantic partners meet in the beginning of the movie yet really don’t reconnect until the end. In the meanwhile were treated to all of these bits of information about the war, the time, and people of that time odd or horrible part of American history.
I’m always exhausted at the end of the movie. Here’s another clip.
Longing is a powerful tool. WE all love a build up of some kind, but the pacing has to be just right. CR, would you consider yourself a bit of a romantic?
Sorry, not really. But if I was nominated I’d still run.
HAHA! That’s ok! 🙂
Great answer CR. LOL!!
In looking at your list of films, OB, I hate to admit that I have never seen Casablanca all the way through. I think I’ve seen the last 10 minutes at least 10 times. *hides behind the chair*
What????????
It’s an acquired taste. CR have u seen Casablanca all the way through? Be honest don’t leave LB hanging……
Again sorry. I don’t think I have.
But I’ve heard lots of great things about it though.
Referring to my “sorry’s”, I hope this isn’t the beginning of a trend.
This is for u and LB!
Thank you OB! Wow there is more than just the last ten minutes. hahaha!!!! 🙂 I will put that on my queue as well.
Good, triangles/obstacle, longing, sexual tension or foreplay are all necessary components for a good Romance film. What Romnace film made in the last 10 years do u think best represent all three?
Here’s a nomination.
Now that I think of it I have seen Atonement just as many times as Cold Mountain. For many different reasons that movie is just as compelling. I don’t think the trailer sales the movie very well but here is anyway.
I’ve never seen that before.
I guess it’s true romance is an acquired taste.
AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!! I have to put that on my queue!!!!
Oh my gosh OB, you are asking me to go back into the farthest corner of my brain and pray the door isn’t dead bolted. 🙂
Ok, Brokeback Mountain. And it broke the mold.
A show of hands.
How many have not seen From here to Eternity, Mrs. Miniver, Gone with the Wind and Dr. Zhivago?
I haven’t seen FHTE, or MM. I’ve never heard of MM. I know FHTE is based on a novel, so that might make a good read.
And back in the day I was OBSESSED with Gone with the Wind. I want all of Scarlet’s dresses and want to slap that girl a few times as well. HAHA!
I’ve seen “Dr. Zhivago.”
LB & CR!!
No problem.
For TBH what director would u like to see direct this movie?
I’ve seen gone with the wind.
Do u like Romance/War films? I know u are not a big Romance film fan but what is it about TBH that appeals to u given u are not a fan of this genre?
For me it was the adventure and the struggle to stay together in an extreme climate.
So Angelina Jolie movie is scheduled for release in December 2011. “In the Land of Blood & Honey.”
Are any of u looking forward to this film? It’s gotten alot of attention over the content. Do u care or are u willing to see it if it’s good?
I’ve actually not heard anything about it. I just read about it on IMDB. Um…it looks interesting, as far as seeing how war affects couples. There aren’t many movies that do that and it is a very important aspect and topic that should be given more attention. I think a lot of soldiers and their families would find it difficult to watch, but relatable.
Hope this doesn’t sound crass. I’m really not a fan of any part of the ongoing Pitt/Jolie spectacle, but I am curious about the effectiveness of the movie.
*coughMENEITHERcough*
Ladies and gent,
I must say goodnight for now. Chaos has ensued in my household and I must go take care immediately. Thank you for the great movie recommendations. I will check back later!!
🙂
LOL! Thanks for joining in LB. Take Care!
Bye LB.
Ozzie! What are your thoughts?
I think she might be hiding.
I have my head buried in IMDB trying to find a man who looks like Alexander in my mind. It’s not going well. 😦
Ozzie- Read my reply to u above!!
Thanks! I officially give up my search……..For now! 🙂
CR & Ozzie-
Given we discussed blockbuster films box office last week. Do u think audiences would come out and support an epic film like TBH or do u think it’s better for HBO?
Depends on the director, wish I could make a suggestion but I haven’t read the book.
As for actors if OB (who read the book) thinks Mr. Pattinson would make a good candidate he probably would. I understand the character is tall. He wouldn’t have to rehearse for that. And I heard him do an accent In Water for Elephants and he was very convincing. His work in Twilight proves that contacts and make up for characteristics that are not naturally his.
Speaking of hair dye, as for the female lead you certainly can compensate that way also. Sounds like she better be an absolutely excellent actress.
I think what’s important like I said to Ozzie above is the internal dialogue these characters need to convey onscreen. Meaning they need great, great charisma, chemistry and magnetism which audiences will be compelled by. Simons has written some intense scenes that start off slow but intensifies over time. The relationship goes from hot to cold in a matter of seconds. So they need to be able to orchestrate that well in their portrayal. IMO!!
OB,
speaking of TV…
I don’t understand women seem to love this genre so much, I can’t believe they don’t do more to keep this material in theaters. Though the quality seems to be questionable, there is an extremely popular romance novel industry.
If you are prone to getting hostile or resent the mention of TV please ignore the video.
My point is woman support that. Is that why they do not support feature films at the movies?
Cough! Cough! Ozzie do u want to take this one? LOL!!
Hey, this site was going to have to address lifetime one day.
Yeah! I just can’t today. Sorry!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Bad taste always gets off the hook.
I was actually being serious, but OK another time…..
I have no idea what is going on here, lol! All I know is that I watched an equivalent of a lifetime movie here and I ended up wanting to spoon my brain out of my ears and nose……..It was awful and I haven’t recovered……I’ll stop before I get flash backs!
I’m really sorry, I wanted an example and the work of the Queen of Romance novels was an easy find.
That wasn’t planned.
I understand TBH is a far better book of a completely different depth and quality. I have a dear acquaintance who has lived in that book for weeks and that’s not possible when the effort is sub-standard, shallow, or based on gimmicks.
I’m not claiming that of Ms. Roberts books, yet I do feel guilty for bringing that up in the presence of a discussion influenced by the Bronze Horseman.
Here’s another thought.
Though men concede to fight or many times are very very “gung ho” to fight, the personal potential to be mamed or murdered is so great. Is this why men are not as thrilled with this topic?
Hmm! U may be onto something CR!
Ozzie have u found your Alexander yet?
No, I gave up, but I will fight another day!
We have five more minutes to the discussion. Does anyone have anymore Q for me?
Another thought,
These (below) used to be the only roles played by women in war movies:
Nurses
Mothers
Wives
Girl friends
Resistance fighters
Soldiers
Officers
Victims
But today they are increasingly ending up on the front lines. OB and Ozzie, does or does this not impact your perception of war and romance?
Sorry everyone, that list of women’s roles was written on the “All About War Movies” site. Greater patronage can be sough below.
http://allaboutwarmovies.com/2010/05/07/women-in-war-movies/
I don’t think so but Meg Ryan could make me change my mind! Sorry, I just don’t gel well with Meg Ryan.
Ozzie,
Here’s a Meg Ryan free example of a documentary that incorporates a discussion of women on the battle field. The truth is this is not a new phenomenon at all.
To be honest, war sucks. So it doesn’t matter whether women are on the battle field or not. I only introduced this video to positively influence or complicate our discussion.
The point is by most standards; Mrs. Simmons wrote a dynamic and incredible book which I may just end up reading if I can find the time.
Well everyone,
Thanks for joinging the discussion tonight. If u have anymore Q’s I will come back tomorrow, check & respond.
I hope u have a good night!!
Bye all. Good luck Ozzie.
Thank you CR! I’m off too. My search made me light headed!
Take care and have a good night. 🙂
My response to lifetime:
just sayin…k, now going back to respond to everyone’s awesome comments.
Funnnnnnnnny!
O.K.,
I saw the link. LB, I will assume you don’t like Lifetime. I’m sure for very good reason.
I assumed that since this is a predominantly women’s site that focuses on the dramatic arts; ***** eventually Lifetime, soap operas (before they disappear) and day time talk shows would eventually be discussed. Why, because women are the predominant audience.
Though it might have seemed like I was bringing this up is jest, instead I was identifying with you.
Because I’m a fan of some narrative forms of media that are frequently integrity challenged, I figured this community here could handle a discussion of equally questionable product. Obviously I assumed wrong. We certainly don’t need to return to the subject ever again. Since we just found out (last discussion) that women are the predominant audience for Netflix, why ever return to TV.
*****I’m expecting that I will be corrected “with the dramatic arts” actually means pertaining to feature films ONLY.
CR! Now that I’ve had my coffee let me try to answer your Q. Obviously, u walked into a sandstorm by bringing up Lifetime, Nora Roberts and Soap Operas during this discussion of TBH.LOL!! However, I do not want to dismiss your argument or offend the women who watch Lifetime. I guess some women like watching Lifetime for the same reason some men watch Spike T.V., it empowers them. Lifetime give women permission to cry without feeling weak and Spike allow men to embrace action for the same reason. I just think the shows that appear on these channels are really contrived for quick results. The only problem is the material never last longer than 15 minutes in our mind and hearts. Does that make sense?
Yep.
Very well put OB. I like something that sticks with me. I want someone to mention a book or movie 10 years down the line with me saying, “Oh my gosh yes!!!” instead of, “Remind me what it’s about?”
Oh CR!!! No don’t get me wrong! I don’t mind discussing lifetime, soap operas or day time talk shows. At all!!! 🙂 On occasion I have watched a few lifetime’s. Heck I used to be a DooL (Days of Our Lives) fan till Sean D and Belle left the show.
That gif was just expressing how I feel about that channel. HAHAHAHA! 🙂 Anytime I have caught some movie I end up being second hand embarrassed for the actors who have to say these cheesy lines with conviction and face palm the scenarios.
If anyone wants to write an article on this topic, I will show up 5 minutes early for the discussion!!! Honestly, it’s a pretty good topic to discuss why a lot of women enjoy that…um…stuff.
OB: back to casting Alexander. I’m going to put it in PTSS so as not to get too off topic here.
CR: I agree with the mamed and murdered part. Also, I can understand why your dear acquaintance has been living these books. These are real life emotions that are being portrayed. Also as I said they are not fluffy or cheesy. TBH is my favorite, but it’s the last in the series that I have a deep reverence. Too many parallel stories and conversations in my own life. It’s a “love it/hate it” book. But I can see why.
Aaaaand…ok, I think that’s it. 🙂