Western Front Association - U.S. Branch - Movie Review of the Trench

The Trench (2000). A critical U.S. Branch DVD review. Released on DVD in March 2003 (also available on VHS format), by BFS Entertainment, Britain. Price: $17.98 at Amazon.com, and available elsewhere. Reviewed by Jim Minnoch

and Rick Belcourt

½ (out of five stars), who might be reached at jemcam@comcast.net.

This is a fine, recently filmed movie regarding a platoon of British soldiers during the beginning of the Battle of the Somme on the Western front (July 1916). The photography is superb, considering the trickiness of working in close quarters. Notice was paid to proper uniforms and equipment. The characterization of the actors is brilliant. The dialogue between the actors is believable and holds one's attention throughout. The interaction between the "old hand" career Sergeant and the disingenuous Lieutenant is particularly outstanding acting. The soldiers' vivacionsness combined with the unfamiliar prospects of the fighting soon-to-come carries the nerve-racking plot, with all its military connotations. The battle scene is wickedly horrendous, but factual in the spirit of bravery. It is apparent that considerable truthful historical research was conducted to produce this film.

Promotional Photo for the Film

But there are some flaws that stand out. One is that these "recent recruits" are in spanking new uniforms, even though the war has been on for two years; someone had a steam iron nearby. We found the number of actors to be too few; the trenches at that time were jam-packed on both sides, to the point of immobility. Immediately noticeable was how neat and orderly the trench was; no water or mud on the on the perfectly level floor; the trench sides were treated somehow so as not to crumble; duck boards appeared in one quick shot but for the most part were absent; the 71° temperature on July 1 did not seem to bother anyone in their heavy woolen uniforms; and a few other minor details, like some improper or missing trench equipment, would be recognized by a serious student of the war.

But, not to matter, the film flows smoothly and has an interesting and well-executed plot. All in all, every student of the war will want to see this film and, as persnickety as we may sound, we recommend it, without reservation for all students of the Great War. Just the notion that World War I movies are still being made in the 21st century is encouraging.

Created: 13 February 2004