The Great War
dir. Mario Monicelli · 1959
The struggle for survival often reveals the absurdity of human existence and the bonds that form in the face of chaos.
Feature
War Trauma
Mood
Comedic
Look
vibrant period details contrasted with stark war imagery
Structure
episodic with interweaving character arcs
Plot
Italy, 1916. Oreste Jacovacci and Giovanni Busacca are called, as all the Italian youths, to serve the army in the WWI. They both try in every way to avoid serving the army.
Why watch
"The Great War" masterfully blends humor and heartbreak, showcasing the absurdity of military life through the eyes of two reluctant soldiers. This poignant yet comedic exploration of friendship amid chaos offers a unique lens on the trials of war, making it a compelling must-see for fans of dark comedy.
Talking points
- the absurdity of war
- friendship under duress
- the role of humor in crisis
- critiques of authority and bureaucracy
Cultural context
Italian neo-realism influencepost-war societal critiqueanti-militarism sentimentcamaraderie in adversity