This movie is simply amazing - but as mentioned else where - might be extremely problematic for the non Israeli, non IDF serving audience. Despite that - the movie has a universal notion that shines through: occupation wars that last for years on end with no clear objective except to stay in the occupied land cannot be won. This is hardly even war - its the use of naive young men, using their sense of patriotism and love for their country and willingness to serve it for a twisted, outdated political machination that ends up killing them and putting them in impossible situations. The movie was criticized for being far too left winged, but I view it as mostly right winged - it shows the camaraderie of soldiers, the bonds that can only be created, or so it seems, in a close knit military unit. Also - there are no women in the movie, not even by voice - which further serves to show a society built on macho-ism and the devotion for young men and their sacrifices to the country. There are no talks of peace here, no talk about negotiations or even viewing the enemy as human. There is only running away or fighting. Despite all that - the movie captures a sense of reality, filled with all variants of humor and pain and longing to get home that captured me completely. I served 4 years in the IDF and this movie manages to get to the core, to the essence of the unbelievable situation of serving, fighting and dieing without knowing why, without seeing any goal or reason in the madness - only following orders.
This is one of the best Israely movies created - if you have any interest in Israely cinema, regardless of your political or other views, don't miss it.
