From Here to Eternity (1953)

 Fred Zinnemann's "From Here to Eternity"


The winner for Best Picture at the 1954 Academy Awards, "From Here to Eternity," details the fictional struggles of three United States Army soldiers in the months leading up to the attack on Pearl Harbor in the fall of 1941. The three soldiers are played by Montgomery Clift, Burt Lancaster, and Frank Sinatra, all of whom where hitting a high mark in the career during this time. "From Here to Eternity" is perhaps their most recognized of their career.

While there is a bit of propaganda with the film, more explicitly towards the end, it does highlight complications with power and abuse within the U.S. military. However, this abuse is correctly punished and by the end, the steadfast love and devotion for the military is regained through this correction as well as the Pearl Harbor attack.

I personally don't feel as though there is a whole lot of thematic importance with "From Here to Eternity." That being said, the film does a great job of keeping the viewer interested in the story. I felt the greatest strength for me was the frustration that comes from Montgomery Clift's Prewitt, who has to catch abuse from higher ranked officers for not joining the boxing team. While the film doesn't scratch any social, political, or existential itch, it does offer a great blend of romance, drama, and by the climax, war. I don't feel too akin to the recognition it received upon its release, but I do feel this to be a solidly entertaining film with great conflict, great stars, and great drama.



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