Saving Private Ryan Dethroned? A Look At The New Contender For Best War Movie

Viktoria Ivanova

5 min read

Post on May 08, 2025

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The Undisputed Reign of Saving Private Ryan

Saving Private Ryan, released in 1998, wasn't just a box office success; it was a cultural phenomenon. The film garnered critical acclaim, winning five Academy Awards, including Best Director for Steven Spielberg. Its impact on the war movie genre is undeniable, setting a new standard for realism and emotional depth.

Realism and Emotional Impact

Spielberg's masterpiece revolutionized war movie cinematography. The opening scene of the Normandy landings remains iconic, a brutal and visceral depiction of the chaos and carnage of war. This unflinching realism, combined with a powerful and emotionally resonant story, deeply impacted audiences.

• Groundbreaking depiction of the Normandy landings: The sheer intensity and realism of the opening sequence set a new bar for war film depictions.
• Raw, unflinching portrayal of combat: The film doesn't shy away from the brutality of war, showcasing the physical and psychological trauma experienced by soldiers.
• Exploration of the psychological impact of war: Saving Private Ryan delves into the mental and emotional scars left by combat, exploring themes of PTSD and moral ambiguity.
• Strong performances from the ensemble cast: Tom Hanks's powerful performance anchors the film, supported by a stellar cast delivering nuanced and unforgettable portrayals.

Lasting Legacy and Cultural Impact

Saving Private Ryan's influence extends far beyond its initial release. It significantly impacted subsequent war films, influencing cinematography, storytelling techniques, and the overall approach to depicting the realities of war.

• Impact on war film cinematography and storytelling: The film's stylistic choices, including handheld camera work and immersive sound design, became highly influential.
• Its place in film school curricula: It's frequently studied as a masterclass in directing, cinematography, and storytelling.
• Continued critical praise and audience appreciation: Even decades later, Saving Private Ryan continues to receive critical acclaim and remains a beloved film among audiences worldwide.

The Emerging Challenger: 1917

Sam Mendes's 1917, released in 2019, presents a compelling challenge to Saving Private Ryan's dominance. This visually stunning and technically innovative film immerses viewers in the trenches of World War I, offering a different perspective on the horrors of war.

Innovative Cinematic Techniques

1917's most striking feature is its innovative cinematic approach. The film is presented as a single, unbroken shot, creating a remarkable sense of immediacy and realism. This technique, while not entirely a single shot (minor cuts were used for practical reasons), enhances the viewer's experience, making them feel as if they are right alongside the soldiers.

• Specific examples of innovative filmmaking techniques: The long takes create a visceral sense of tension and suspense, constantly keeping the viewer engaged.
• How these techniques enhance the viewer's experience of the war: The unbroken shot style increases the immersive quality of the film, putting viewers directly into the heart of the action.
• Comparison to the techniques used in Saving Private Ryan: While Saving Private Ryan used handheld camera work to enhance realism, 1917's unique single-shot technique offers a different, equally powerful approach.

Themes and Narrative Structure

1917 focuses on a single mission, creating a more intimate and personal story than Saving Private Ryan's larger ensemble narrative. While both films explore the brutality of war, 1917 emphasizes the desperate struggle for survival and the unrelenting pressure faced by soldiers in the trenches.

• Comparison of plot structure and character development: 1917's linear narrative focuses on two main characters, while Saving Private Ryan features a larger ensemble cast with multiple storylines.
• Examination of the different emotional tones of each film: Both films elicit strong emotional responses, but 1917 generates a more consistent feeling of dread and suspense.
• Discussion of the films' respective messages about war and humanity: While both films condemn the horrors of war, their approaches to this message are subtly different, reflecting their contrasting narratives.

Critical Reception and Audience Response

1917 received widespread critical acclaim, earning numerous awards and nominations, including several Academy Awards. While its box office success didn't quite match Saving Private Ryan's, its impact on audiences and critics was significant.

• Comparison of box office success and critical reviews: While both films were critically acclaimed, 1917 had a slightly smaller box office run.
• Analysis of audience reactions and online discussions: Online discussions reveal a passionate divide over which film represents the superior war movie.
• Mention any awards or accolades received: 1917 won several prestigious awards, including Best Cinematography and Best Visual Effects at the Oscars.

A Head-to-Head Comparison: Saving Private Ryan vs. 1917

Conclusion

Both Saving Private Ryan and 1917 represent landmark achievements in war cinema, each offering a unique and powerful portrayal of the conflict. Saving Private Ryan set the standard for realism and emotional depth, while 1917 showcased innovative cinematic techniques and a compelling narrative. Ultimately, the title of "best war movie" remains a matter of personal preference. Have you seen both Saving Private Ryan and 1917? Share your thoughts on which film deserves the crown in the comments below! Let's discuss what makes the best war movie for you.