It is not often that a new film open that has an all star cast, a great storyline and wonderful locations. Yet the Monuments Men movie has managed to do all three. The iconic George Clooney is the driving force behind the entire project. Not only did he take the starring role, but also directed and co wrote the film.
The film is based on a book by Robert M. Edsel, which was based on facts. It was released on February 7, 2014 to some mixed reviews. Many critics feel that they producer tried to do too much. Condensing such a huge and interesting story into a feature film is never easy. However, it has received much praise for the excellent recreation of the era, with most scenes being shot in Europe providing much authenticity.
After the outbreak of the war Hitler's German war machine marched over much of Europe. Small countries like Belgium and Holland did not stand a chance and were occupied almost immediately. Even France proved no match for the massive forces that rumbled towards them and half of their territory became occupied. On Hitler's order officers began to seek out and loot valuable works of art including pictures, sculptures and much more.
Both the British and American governments were aware of the large scale looting and realized that something had to be done. It was becoming clear that the Allies were most likely going to be victorious, even if the end of the war was still years away. But what would that victory be worth if most of the art treasures of western civilization were lost for ever.
It quickly becomes clear that the extent of the problem is far greater that they had imagined. Not only is it becoming clear to everyone that the allies will most likely win the war, the Russian army is advancing across eastern Europe. The Russians are also on the trail of lost art works, but they have no intentions of returning them. Instead, they consider anything they can find the spoils of war and are quickly shipping it back east.
The movie has been praised for its excellent scenes and locations. To keep things as authentic as possible much of the film was shot on location in Europe. Audiences can enjoy scenes set at historically accurate British air force camps. Every effort has been made to maintain the seriousness of the message, whilst adding a little humor and some great actors.
Among the popular faces are George Clooney, who also directed the film. This really was a labor of love for him as he also co wrote and produced it in partnership with Grant Heslov. It was made by the ever popular Columbia Pictures and 20th Century Fox studios and released on February 7 after premiering at the Berlin Film Festival.
Overall the movie achieves its goal of educating the public about one of the forgotten aspects of war. It also touches on topics such as the treatment of Jews at the hands of the Nazi's when the men find bags of gold fillings along with works of art. It moves along nicely and has enough humor to keep audiences entertained.
The film is based on a book by Robert M. Edsel, which was based on facts. It was released on February 7, 2014 to some mixed reviews. Many critics feel that they producer tried to do too much. Condensing such a huge and interesting story into a feature film is never easy. However, it has received much praise for the excellent recreation of the era, with most scenes being shot in Europe providing much authenticity.
After the outbreak of the war Hitler's German war machine marched over much of Europe. Small countries like Belgium and Holland did not stand a chance and were occupied almost immediately. Even France proved no match for the massive forces that rumbled towards them and half of their territory became occupied. On Hitler's order officers began to seek out and loot valuable works of art including pictures, sculptures and much more.
Both the British and American governments were aware of the large scale looting and realized that something had to be done. It was becoming clear that the Allies were most likely going to be victorious, even if the end of the war was still years away. But what would that victory be worth if most of the art treasures of western civilization were lost for ever.
It quickly becomes clear that the extent of the problem is far greater that they had imagined. Not only is it becoming clear to everyone that the allies will most likely win the war, the Russian army is advancing across eastern Europe. The Russians are also on the trail of lost art works, but they have no intentions of returning them. Instead, they consider anything they can find the spoils of war and are quickly shipping it back east.
The movie has been praised for its excellent scenes and locations. To keep things as authentic as possible much of the film was shot on location in Europe. Audiences can enjoy scenes set at historically accurate British air force camps. Every effort has been made to maintain the seriousness of the message, whilst adding a little humor and some great actors.
Among the popular faces are George Clooney, who also directed the film. This really was a labor of love for him as he also co wrote and produced it in partnership with Grant Heslov. It was made by the ever popular Columbia Pictures and 20th Century Fox studios and released on February 7 after premiering at the Berlin Film Festival.
Overall the movie achieves its goal of educating the public about one of the forgotten aspects of war. It also touches on topics such as the treatment of Jews at the hands of the Nazi's when the men find bags of gold fillings along with works of art. It moves along nicely and has enough humor to keep audiences entertained.
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