Alvin...Ma Wants Ya

Sergeant York was a staple around my house. It is mom's favorite movie and often came out on Sunday afternoons when everything else on television was deemed "trash" (especially in light of the fact that it was Sunday...you'd think those network people would play more religious programming....yes mom). So while friends were probably viewing sporting events or at the very least, whatever movie ABC decided to air, I was viewing classic movies with mom. I don't think I dreaded it much then and now I appreciate it more than ever.

Alvin C. York, World War I veteran, is a true character. I've heard him called, in more than one instance, the "reluctant hero". This a reference to his pacifism, since the Bible is "a'gin killin'". York, per the tale spun in this wartime tale, had recently found religion when he was drafted and called to serve. Gary Cooper plays York in a stirring, Oscar-winning style that makes York at once hero and lovable backwoods gentleman.

The film makes excellent transition from York's backwoods, rural setting to battle scenes without the jarring effect that could have been entirely possible. In fact, the depth given to the hometown scenes as well as the battle and post-battle shots is applaudable. Pre-religious York is played wonderfully including some drunken brawls and comical instances of a brother come to 'fetch Alvin home. These comical moments are interwoven perfectly in the midst of a mother's heartbreak over a wayward son, and a portrait of York as a man: hardworking, faithful son with a conscience.

The philosopher will enjoy the arguments made for and against war as will the Biblical scholar. Cooper portrays the struggle in a fashion perhaps only he could have accomplished in 1941.

Certainly a film that could have fittingly carried the "buy war bonds" scenes of this generation.

Crafted beautifully, superbly acted, with just enough light hearted moments to make this "war movie" not as stoic as it could have been. Worth a see most definitely in the original black and white (although colorized is also available). Tennessee countryside is made beautiful even minus the color---this alone is worth viewing the original version.

Try it on Sunday...when the networks are only playing "trash".