War is filled with inherent contradictions, and these hypocrisies are addressed--often quite effectively--in Gregory Hoblit's new film, Hart's War. Based on the novel by John Katzenbach, Hart's War takes place in a Nazi POW camp during World War II in the winter of 1945. The film follows the struggle of Lt. Thomas Hart (Colin Farrell) as he is forced to defend a black officer falsely accused of murder.
More than anything else, Hart's War is about contrasts and divisions. Alar Kivilo's brilliant cinematography underscores the film's racial conflict: The snow-covered German countryside is broken only by charred trees and fallen bodies.
Until the last ten minutes or so, this is a satisfying film. Bruce Willis once again shines in a more reserved, somber role, and overall the pacing and tone feel just about right. But in the end, while Hart's War certainly asks important questions, it is sadly reserved when it comes down to making a final, defining point and degenerates into an unbelievable festival of self-sacrifice and heroic melodrama.
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