The Monuments Men

The Monuments Men, George Clooney directed, produced, and starred in this WWII film that tells the story of a group of men that try to save much of Europe's priceless artwork from Adolf Hitler's plan to confiscate or destroy it all. My father, 86 years on, watched this movie and his critique was that there was not enough information about the art that was stolen and saved. My son, 24, was only able to watch the first 20 min. His comment was that the "movie is boring!" Unfortunately, they are both right, but I did watch the entire film and I have to give Mr. Clooney kudos for trying... The premise is based on a true story. It's a story, a lesson, worth telling—people will come and go, it is the art, monuments, architecture, literature, music, language, culture and traditions that will endure and ensure the survival of civilization (loosely paraphrased). The movie takes a middle of the road approach to drive this point home. It's the dialogue between the men, their thoughts about the mission that's emphasized, not the art, not the action, not the drama. I guess this makes sense with the title, but because of this approach the movie falls flat.... With the great cast, Kate Blanchet, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Matt Damon, the French guy, and several others—there was a missed opportunity to make a fun, entertaining movie; perhaps another Dirty Dozen, Ocean's 11, or something similar. With the compelling true story, there was a chance to make a real documentary type film that would have been interesting as well as educational. The producers should have gone one way or another. Hypocritically, I've got to say that my recommendation is also middle of the road. I can honestly say I did enjoy it, but on the other hand, I don't really recommend it.