Why this and all 'Saints and Soldiers' Movies are Great

Note: This was originally posted on the Saints 2 message board.

I am a big Saints and Soldiers fan. The first one was one of my favorite films of all time. I have seen a lot of criticisms in reference to the authenticity of the weapons, etc. I was in the Marines, had relative/friends in WWII and the military, etc. Thus, I suppose I could nitpick this movie. However, I have a few points why the movie(s) is so appealing.

1. Considering the budget for these films, they made the most of every cent. I have seen super budgeted films that pale in comparison for various reasons. Like education, it’s not the money you spend, it’s the quality of the product you put out. I love the product. The production value is top quality, in my opinion.

2. The actors by and large are excellent. Corbin Allred is fantastic. I wish he was in more things. Also, some of the actors are somewhat of a mystery and thus, somewhat enigmatic. For example, Melinda Renee (Saints 1) and Virginie Fourtina Anderson (Saints 2) are gorgeous and did a great job but I have never seen them before (as far as I know). Ms. Anderson has not been in anything else, at least according to Imdb. She has no bio, etc. Where did she come from? Is she a professional actress? Ms. Renee was great as well and so appealing but you don’t see her in a lot. The other guy actors for the most part are not in a lot of things either. I really like them all and would like to see them more. Of course the direction was great.

3. Some of the undertones of the criticisms in Saints 1 & 2 seem to suggest a bias. The movie has a Mormon director; many actors are Mormon, etc. But, so what. My experience with Mormons is that they, by and large, are some of the most loyal and moral people in America. I don’t worry about roving Mormon gangs when I go out. I’m not one of the sensitive types and Mormons have learned to have thick skin so no biggie there, I suppose. Just pointing it out.

4. Finally, and most importantly, the movies’ redeeming value cannot be understated. These movies pay tribute to all WW II armed forces personnel. God bless them all. Also, I am not being relativistic. America and our allies were the good guys in the war. However, there is something redeeming in enemies finding some kind of common ground. Those who have watched both movies know what I am talking about. I like seeing the human side come out sometimes. Those who know me would be surprised I am writing this, but these movies soften me up.

Keep up the good work, Mr. Little.