Silent Night [DVD]

I like films set in the war and was keen to see this after reading other reviews. I was doubtful as being a 'true story' sometimes they don't work. I found the actors convincing even an aged Linda Hamilton speaking German was clear enough with her young son whom they spend Christmas in a hut with a war around them during ww2. Then a group of 3 Americans turn up, one injured, who seek shelter and then 3 Germans turn up looking for shelter also. Naturally this should have not worked; since being enemies they should have shot each other's brains out or the Germans by right could have arrested the Americans and 'Elizabeth' and her son for sheltering them. It is a nice film that it is set around Christmas, hence the title, Silent Night so the soldiers put their anger issues aside and make peace with Elizabeth and her son who is quite curious about them. The German commandant is quite suspicious and eventually cracks venting his anger towards everyone but then towards the end the group go their own way. I like how there were no real swear words in this, as in most American war films they like to swear a lot, showing how tough they are. You can sort of relate to the actors who I really don't know who they are, despite being familiar with Linda Hamilton (Dantes' Peak). It's a nice war film with a nice setting, being a low budge film it seems to work well.

This is a great true story but unfortunately it is poorly executed. It was made for TV and it shows having that TV movie of the week feel. Earnest and well meaning but awfully written and directed without flair. It has more in common with 'The Bold and the Beautiful' than a typical War film. Revelations and surprises are dealt with in that bad TV way of 'Will he see the German medal in the American soldiers kit bag ... find out after this commercial break'. There is no sense of emotional strain whatsover despite the plot relying on the stress and anxiety of Linda Hamilton's character. Her German accent is excellent but this seems to get in the way of her performance creating any tension. Martin Neufeld plays his role as the hard line Nazi with cartoonish relish. The music is also TV light and partly responsible for the lack emotional clout. The aspect ratio is 4:3 which feels odd watching such a recent film on a modern TV set. The cinematography and set design are however top notch. So why did I give this 2 and a half star movie 4 stars. The quality of the transfer on this DVD is amazing, its almost like watching a blue ray version. You can make out every piece of stubble on the actors faces in pin sharp detail.

This is one of the best Christmas movies, it’s very wholesome and truly depicts what Christmas is all about.

One of my fav films ever, never seen it on normal TV channels so glad to get it on dvd.

Given the brutality that existed in the Ardennes, during December 1944 and January 1945, this story - of how German and American soldiers ceased fighting for a night in order to celebrate Christmas - grabbed my attention. In the light of the Malmedy massacre and other shootings, of both Belgian civilians and Germans, it seemed unsual to read of such a tale. That said, it is true and so refreshing to view such a heart rending story; of how humanity can overcome the harsh reality of war. The attention to detail and the acting were top notch in this film, most notably by Linda Hamilton, who managed to produce a more than adequate German accent. In short, this is a good movie that is perfect for Sunday afternoons.

An excellent WW2 film, at the time of the last few months of the war. I believe the story was a true one, but makes for gripping viewing, with an excellent plot. I have not yet been able to view the DVD owing to my hi-fi not being properly in place, but I look forward to seeing this wonderful film again in the near future.

A teacher whose eldest son is dead and husband is missing tries to save her remaining 12 year old son Fritz from conscription during the last few months of WW2. Taking refuge in the family log cabin in the woods dangerously close to enemy lines, both German and American soldiers stumble across their hide out and end up staying the night together. At first the evening is full of hatred and tension but gradually through a roller coaster of emotions mutual respect is found.The film is simply a made for TV film by Canadian TV staring Linda Hamilton (of Terminator fame) but don't let that put you off. It is brilliantly acted and will leave you feel uplifted.

perfect