I wanted to say a few words on this magnificent film.
Firstly the acting was first-class. In no film have I seen an actor capture the look of terror that I man feels when he contemplates his death and suppresses terror because of his dignity. It is all in the eyes, and Evan's despairing gaze as he sinks to the snow lingers with the viewer long after the film has ceased to roll. Old as it is, it is a vastly more powerful and shaking film than 'Saving Private Ryan. The make-up and casting are first class. The fact that it was made only a generation after the expedition, gives the film a touch of verisimilitude that truly chills the blood.
Many of the comments here reflect a post-imperialist desire to deconstruct the heroes of the Empire of whom Scott was one. His diary apparently, reveals weaknesses of character. But this ignores that a man facing death, communicates to his diary the depths of his soul while he bears a brave face to his companions. Scott's errors can be seen as those of a man taking a gamble, underfunded, knowing the chances but believing that with ordinary luck, he should succeed. The polar winter closes early and at the end he acknowledges his defeat and imminent death.
If you want to see a film about men challenging the odds and facing death - this is the film.
Firstly the acting was first-class. In no film have I seen an actor capture the look of terror that I man feels when he contemplates his death and suppresses terror because of his dignity. It is all in the eyes, and Evan's despairing gaze as he sinks to the snow lingers with the viewer long after the film has ceased to roll. Old as it is, it is a vastly more powerful and shaking film than 'Saving Private Ryan. The make-up and casting are first class. The fact that it was made only a generation after the expedition, gives the film a touch of verisimilitude that truly chills the blood.
Many of the comments here reflect a post-imperialist desire to deconstruct the heroes of the Empire of whom Scott was one. His diary apparently, reveals weaknesses of character. But this ignores that a man facing death, communicates to his diary the depths of his soul while he bears a brave face to his companions. Scott's errors can be seen as those of a man taking a gamble, underfunded, knowing the chances but believing that with ordinary luck, he should succeed. The polar winter closes early and at the end he acknowledges his defeat and imminent death.
If you want to see a film about men challenging the odds and facing death - this is the film.