Setting the Stage for a Few Good Men: An Informal Review

Setting the Stage for a Few Good Men: An Informal Review

The 1992 American legal drama film, “A Few Good Men,” directed by Rob Reiner, has stuck with audiences for almost three decades. The movie boasts an all-star cast, including Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore, who brought their A-game in a story that combines military ethics, court-martial trials, and political ambition.

But what makes “A Few Good Men” such an appealing movie that audiences still talk about it to this day? In this article, we will explore the movie’s relevant themes and cinematic devices, which make it a timeless classic.

The Synopsis

The story follows two U.S. Marines, Louden Downey and Harold Dawson, who are charged with the murder of a fellow Marine, William Santiago, at Guantanamo Bay military prison. The defense team, led by Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee (played by Tom Cruise), suspects that the two Marines carried out the attack under an “unofficial” order known as a “Code Red” from their commanding officer, Colonel Nathan Jessep (played by Jack Nicholson). Lt. Kaffee sets out to prove that Jessep gave the order and that the Marines were merely following it.

The Themes

One of the movie’s central themes is the tension between military orders and individual morality. The film raises questions about the legality and ethics of “Code Red” orders, and whether soldiers have a moral duty to disobey them, even if it means going against their commanders.

Another theme is the idea of honor and loyalty, two concepts that hold a great significance within military culture. The film portrays how loyalty can sometimes overshadow truth, putting duty over honor, and the moral obligations that come with choosing between them.

Moreover, “A Few Good Men” questions the interplay between power and abuses of it. The movie depicts how Nathan Jessep abuses his position of power to climb the military ranks, express control over his subordinates, and conceal his unethical behavior.

The Cinematography

The movie’s cinematography elevates the story’s themes and helps to convey them to the audience. The lighting and framing techniques help to create an ominous and tense atmosphere throughout the trial scenes, while the close-up shots and reaction shots allow viewers to empathize with the characters’ emotions.

In particular, the iconic scene where Colonel Jessep tells Lieutenant Kaffee “You can’t handle the truth,” is a testament to Jack Nicholson’s acting skills. The close-up shot of Jessep’s face, his cold, dead eyes staring straight at Kaffee, conveys the character’s dangerous and intimidating nature, while his reliance on his power to intimidate is brought out in the framing of the scene.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “A Few Good Men” is a compelling and thought-provoking movie that explores timeless themes such as power, loyalty, and individual morality. Additionally, the film’s sharp cinematic techniques elevate the story’s themes. It is no surprise that the movie has gained such a cult following and has cemented itself as one of the most iconic legal dramas of all time.