In Love and War (2001)

Redundant and unnecessary.

Memorable, crazy movie

I like movies that are aware of what they are selling... without [any] greater aspirations than to make people laugh and that's it.

All that we are seeing on the screen is happening with real people, real action sequences in the background, forcing the eye to watch as if we were there.

'In love and war' is truly an amazing effort to exhibit the troubles of a British soldier who is left behind as he is injured while all others try to reach borders but are captured by Germans as prisoners of war in Italy. The humanity shown by the Italians against the Germans in favor of the British Soldier(Callum Blue) is heart touching. The chemistry and sincere love that he shares with the Italian girl who initially helps him in translation adds quite a spark to the whole theme. Its a beautiful movie that involves love and thrill with all the hope and purity. The pace and the setting is all justified and the fact that its a true story makes it an even enchanting experience. I recommend it to all those who find story based movies interesting. Hats off to the whole team !!

Based on the true story of a British soldier who must be left behind after being injured as the Nazis approach, he wanders throughout Italy trying in vain to make his way back to Allied forces, his country, whereever, and meets a young Italian girl who translates for him. The surprises at every turn when he seems to encounter fear of Nazis and instead it is humanity is a driving force in this film. The disdain for the Axis powers is found at every turn. Expect to see a small scene of a nun facing off against the Nazis. The nun will win, by the way. Escapes abound in this movie as well.The only recognizeable face is the British fellow who appears in English shows like 'Rumpole of the Bailey' and 'To The Manor Born'. Callum Blue as Eric Newby has everything Hugh Grant does, without the wimpiness or scandal. The Italian country side is also an outstanding supporting player in this film. I was used to grape vineyards and Godfather scenery in Italy. While still being the country, it was nice to not see bad tempered stereotypes. And the slow, sad musical score that creeps in will be perfect to make the dear woman beside you reach for her Kleenex.

"In Love and War" is a simple feel-good TV-film, and should be viewed as such.(Possible spoiler)It is the story of a WWII British soldier, Newby, captured with his commando by the Italians and imprisoned in a former orphanage. As the Italians surrender to the Allies, the commando is freed, and attempts to flee. However, the Germans arrive and the commando is captured again. Only Newby, injured, remains at large. The rest of the film recounts how he is hidden and protected by the Partisans, and his survival.(End of spoiler)Based on a true story, "In Love and War" is a refreshingly straightforward film. Half comedy, half romance, the story is simple and unambiguous. The 'atmosfera' is warm and sunny, and the various stereotypes (the desperately unorganized or romantic Italians, the serious stern-looking Germans and the phlegmatic and pragmatic British), although unoriginal, are still humorous. Nicola Piovani's musical score also adds to the Mediterranean flavour.Although it is far from being a "Tea With Mussolini" or a "La Vita E Bella", "In Love and War" is a sweet simple film that will put a smile, and maybe even a little tan, on your face.

Filmed entirely in Italy, this true World War II drama about an English prisoner-of-war is superb. Everything about this film is brilliant; more importantly, it's a testament to the indomitable will of the human spirit.