Clint Eastwood is back in the director’s chair and he is doing what he does best. Trying to make audiences feel every emotion possible on his cinematic journeys of the human spirit. Last time, he took home the Oscar for Million Dollar Baby. Can we see his name called again for his new release Flags Of Our Fathers?

Eastwood’s new creation centers on the life stories of the three surviving soldiers who raised the flag at The Battle of Iwo Jima, Japan in Febuary 1945. The picture that was taking of them doing such a simple task became a turning point in the WWII war effort. It became a beacon of hope to America and it propelled these ordinary soldiers into overnight celebrities.

Ryan Phillippe plays John “Doc” Bradley, the most noble of the trio. He goes along on this publicity tour without complaint. It’s obvious he takes issue with his “new job“, but he does what he’s told. Jesse Bradford plays Rene Gagnon, the one who likes all the attention, especially from the girls. He wants to use this new fame to help secure his future. Adam Beach plays Ira Hayes, the most reluctant one of the group. He feels extreme guilt from the fact that he is alive and back home while his comrades are still in Japan fighting and dying. He escapes his pain by drinking it all away.

Although these men take different approaches to their fame, one fact remains abundantly clear. They are all haunted by the memories of that island and the friends they saw die there. The men they all agree are the “True Heroes” of the war.

Eastwood has taken this piece of history and shed new light on its importance and its controversy. The little facts and details that were left out. The real impact it had on all involved and how it changed their lives forever.

This film is a wonderful tribute to the men that died during that war campaign. Eastwood has made a visually stunning film that moves and entertains. Although some of the performances were a bit over the top, the story was well done and the history aspect was very accurate. Believe me, I checked. Gotta love that internet.

To be honest, I’m not a fan of war movies at all. There has only been a hand full of them that I’ve liked. This one wasn’t the best, but it did entertain and most importantly, it informed.

Will Eastwood hear his name called again on Oscar nomination morning? Who knows? Who cares? I do know that Flags Of Our Fathers is a wonderful tribute to soldiers past and present. I may not be a supporter of war, but I appreciate the sacrifices of these men and women. You are all heroes in my book.

by Thomas Ferguson