Even after 105 years, Passchendaele (made in 2008 and based on the 1917 World War 1 battle) is a compelling and thought-provoking story that deals with human sacrifice and emotions during times of war. Produced, directed, written and acted by well-known Canadian actor Paul Gross, he creates a story of romance amidst the horrors and mayhem of death and destruction.
Inspired by a story his grandfather, Michael Dunne, told him regarding fighting in WW1, Gross creates an inspiring story about romance, love and human interactions within the setting of the muddy trenches and fields of Passchendaele, Belgium. 16,000 Canadian men and women were either killed or wounded in this battle, and even though the Canadian forces were successful in light of the other allies’ failures, the battle, as seen in hindsight, made little difference in the war.
Unlike other war movies that focus in on the troops and their push to capture a ridge or a hilltop, Gross instead focuses in on the human condition and emotions that surround the horrors of wounded soldiers and death. He does this masterfully through the eyes of wounded soldier Sgt. Michael Dunne as he becomes romantically involved with his caregiver nurse Sarah Mann, played by Caroline Dhavernas.
We learn that Sarah’s family has ties to the Germans and through a series of somewhat convoluted twists, turns and subplots creating societal pressures, our lead characters find themselves on the battlefield of Passchendaele.
I found the story with all its subplots compelling to watch and I wanted to see how each arc the writer had created would resolve itself.
There is a refreshing quality to the way Gross wrote and told this story. It did not feel like a big American budget war movie and this made the experience welcoming and endearing.
The first half of the film is set in beautiful Alberta with its pristine landscapes. The second half takes place in the horrific, rainy mud fields of Passchendaele.
The cinematography is stunning at times and the director uses the camera masterfully to capture the emotions of the characters. The entire scope of the sets and look of the picture (created by Carol Spier, the production designer) were well researched and beautiful to look at considering the production was made on a very limited budget and taking into account the immense scope of the material.
The musical score is beautiful and written by the famous composer Jan A.P. Kaczmarek.
Passchendaele is an award-winning film garnering Genie Awards (the Canadian Oscars) for Best Motion Picture, Best Art Direction and Production Design, Best Costume Design, Best Sound and Best Sound Editing.
At a time to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our liberties, Passchendaele is the perfect vehicle to take us through this journey of remembrance. We should be proud of our Canadian men and women who have fought for us and we should thank Paul Gross for doing a masterful job at creating a story that is worthy of telling and watching.
For these reasons I recommend and give Passchendaele four out of five tugboats.
Passchendaele can be seen on CBC Gem, Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Stephen J. Miller is a producer and creative writer in feature films and television, and past owner of repertoire movie theatres.
