“War Horse” tells the story of a young horse named Joey, raised in England by a boy named Albert who is forced to sell him to the army. Joey changes hands many times, as he travels from England to France, through enemy lines and back during the vicious events of World War II.
Little did I know when I went to see it, but there was talk of a nomination for Best Picture soon after “War Horse’s” initial premier and I can see why. The cinematography has that wonderful larger-than-life feel of a war-story while keeping a distinctly human aspect. There’s a breathtaking scene of Joey galloping at break-neck speed through the trenches that can only be described as supremely epic.
There are some notable parts of the cast as well; Jeremy Irvine, who plays Albert shows admirable skill and emotion for a newcomer to the screen. Thomas Hiddleston as captain Nicholls, Benedict Cumberbatch as Maj. Stewart, and David Thewlis as Lyons enjoy some of the more developed supporting roles throughout the ranks of the armies.
“War Horse” is a straightforward movie, because you get exactly what you expect. It’s not necessarily predictable, but the plot moves in an inevitable circle where the viewer can leave feeling confident that all is as it should be. It’s a movie that never quite grows bigger than it’s trailer promises. Although it may be quaintly sentimental, “War Horse” does have a redeeming quality in that the viewer never feels that they are watching Joey being passed from owner to owner, rather it is the story of Joey’s life and all who happen to pass through along the way.
