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The first clash against the Rebels comes and despite his
fear the young man holds with his men. During a second attack
he "skeedaddles" and his shame worsens as he comes
across men of his regiment who have been wounded in the fight.
Gathering his courage, Fielding returns to duty determined
not to flee again and seeking redemption for his running.
The lead role is played by Audie Murphy and he is possibly
the greatest bit of casting ever done in Hollywood. Who better
to play a nervous "coward" than America's most decorated
soldier of World War II - Audie Murphy.
Murphy is excellent and brings his own knowledge of fear
on a battlefield to his portrayal.
Backing him up is a cast that you may not know the names
of, but you will know many of the faces. There's Bill Maudlin
(creator of a famous WW2 cartoon series Willie and Joe), Andy
Devine (you'll know the voice), Royal Dano and a heap of others.
Another amazing part of Red Badge of Courage is the
excellent black-and-white transfer that is super sharp and
has superb contrast. This is no grey movie, but a vivid and
interesting spectacle. It almost looks as if acclaimed photographer
Ansell Adams took and printed each frame himself.
There is a later remake of the movie starring Richard Thomas
but, for mine, this is the preferred wonderful example of
film-making.
Conclusion: 85% Extras: 60%.
Continued:
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