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Sunday, March 16, 2014

Watch The Monuments Men Movie

By Jaclyn Hurley


The Monuments Men movie is set during World War Two. It has an all star cast headed by George Clooney. Clooney also directed the film and co wrote and produced it with Grant Heslov. It it certainly not the typical war production that focuses on action, guns and battles. Instead this thoughtful story tackles a topic that is hugely important but gets very little publicity.

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.

The allies had realized quite early on in the war that the Nazi's were looting many of the great art treasures of Europe. On Hitler's orders they were also confiscating many of the pieces owned by Jews who were deported to the death camps. Hitler himself had plans for much of the art. He wanted as much as possible for his private collection, but also planned to set up a museum. His senior officers were also building their own private collections with many priceless works of art they looted.

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.

As it became increasingly clear that the allies were winning and ultimately Germany would be defeated the need to find the treasures became ever more intense. To add to the pressure Hitler had issued what is known as the Nero decree. This stated that on his death or the fall of the Reich, all art treasures in German possession were to be destroyed. Knowing this the allied teams were working against the clock.

Theater goes will be happy to see a host of familiar faces. In addition to the hugely popular Clooney, Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett and Bill Murray also star as American officers involved in the rescue efforts. Hugh Bonneville of Downton Abbey fame is excellent as the British member of the team.

The film does an excellent job of shedding light on a typically forgotten aspect of the war. It is based on true events and characters. It also shows younger audiences that art and history do matter. The poignant ending is very well done and leaves the audience with plenty of food for thought.

The screen play was developed from Robert M. Edsel's excellent book that told the true story of the real treasure hunters during the war. It is the perfect opportunity for viewers to learn about one of the forgotten aspects of war. It also does a good job of showing the fate of many Jewish people at the hands of the brutal Nazi regime.




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