Based on the true story of the greatest treasure hunt in history, The Monuments Men is an action drama focusing on an unlikely World War II platoon that goes into Germany to rescue some art’s greatest treasures from Nazi thieves and return them to their rightful owners. Directed by George Clooney, this film explores another side of the war that often goes untold. All of the precious pieces of art that were stolen was incredible, and if Hitler’s safety was compromised, they had instructions to destroy it.
The Monuments Men consisted of Frank Stokes (George Clooney), James Granger (Matt Damon), Richard Campbell (Bill Murray), Walter Garfield (John Goodman), Jean-Claude Clermont (Jean Dujardin), Donald Jeffries (Hugh Bonneville) and Preston Savitz (Bob Balaban). It should also be noted that Clooney co-wrote the screenplay as well.
While the movie was a learning experience and the acting was great (and Bill Murray was funny as always), the movie felt like it was dragging on. There were 3 different occasions when I checked my watch because the film is listed under 2 hours but I felt like it was pushing 2 hours and 30 minutes. Aside from wondering when the movie was actually going to end, it was a great film with balanced face-time. Meaning that no actor “stole the show.” Everyone had an even amount of coverage which I think is a big deal with so many A-list actors in 1 film. I give it a 8 out of 10. If you’re looking for a good movie to see on a weekend, this one won’t disappoint.
-Jon J.