U-571

Synopsis

The unfortunately fake story of American submariners who took control of a German sub that held the most important device in winning the war, the Enigma.

Review

When this movie first came out, I would have put money that it was based on a true story. It is, in the loosest part of they took a single incident - Allies stealing a U-boat, and the enigma inside. It wasn't done by Americans either. Not only that, but it was done by the Brits and so that is something to remember. In fact the Brits are who broke the Enigma and you can see that story in The Imitation Game.

The story in itself is interesting. I have learned a lot about Submarine warfare from The Hunt for Red October and Indianapolis, which is why I watched this movie, and I know there are things here that are 100% for the sake of the movie. However, on the flip side of that, they tell it VERY well. There are a lot of things set up in the first act that are paid off all the way at the end of third act. That leads to some excellent acting and character building for sure.

Matthew McConaughey and Harvey Keitel are the reason you watch this movie. They do an outstanding job understanding their role and playing it how you would expect Naval Gentlemen to do. A young brash officer who thinks hitting all the checkmarks makes him ready for the next command. A grizzled Chief that understands that his actions and reactions will ripple through the rest of the enlisted.

My Rating

When I was younger, I remember thinking that this movie and Remember the Titans were going to be the only DVDs I would want or need. Not sure why I felt that way when I had watched Star Wars Episode I - The Phantom Menace a dozen times by the time these came out. I think at the time I would have given them a 8. However, watching it now, the explosions of ships, the exposition of the story elements, the over the top stereotypical characters, just make it hard to keep there. I think I am going to give this a 7.

Parental Rating

There is language, but speaking that this came out in 2000, it is tame. There isn't any sex or nudity. The blood is more funny than real. It is very bright and always comes from the mouth, so there is an element of fakery to it. There is no family elements so I can confidently say that Mom is out. Dad does enjoy this movie, or at least did back in the day. Approved by Dad, rejected by Mom.

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