The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) Movie Review

Here are some of my thoughts on this postwar classic about three servicemen returning home. I hope you enjoy the review. :)
Many special thanks to those who have shown additional appreciation for these videos through Ko-fi--THANK YOU!
If you happen to notice any awkward pauses or transitions here, that's because a) the file ended up so big that I decided to do less fine-tuning, and b) I had to cover up a few mistakes. That's not unusual--there's actually a lot of patching that goes on in the editing process--but sometimes the result isn't as smooth as I'd like. Hopefully nothing's too jarring here!
ko-fi.com/weis...

[@jk3521]

One of the greatest movies ever made ! Breaks your heart.

[@jamesalexander5623]

.... And then Gives You Hope!

[@jamescarbonaro596]

Thank you for remembering and honoring our Veterans, your review says it all.. Had tears in my eyes... :)

[@wayned1807]

By far the best review of any movie I've ever heard, let alone one of my favorites. So insightful, both the movie and your review. As a veteran of the Vietnam war, I can honestly say your comments at the end were extremely helpful and kind. We don't hear them enough. Thank you. I often think of that day when I came home after being away for 3 years. Adjustment doesn't come easy but managed to get through it. I was born just a couple of years after this movie was made and my Father was WWII Veteran in the Navy. His adjustment was much more difficult than mine but still lived till 2004. Our whole neighborhood growing up was full of WWII vets. May we never forget their sacrifice

[@CarlB_1962]

I saw the film for the first time a year or two ago and wasn’t prepared for the extent to which it affected me. My brother spent most of his working life in the army and, although he never fought in any international conflicts, he did several tours of Northern Ireland during “the troubles” in the 1970s, and I know he saw things there that affected his mental health for the rest of his life, which is probably what contributed to my reaction to the film. I know it’s a vague and inadequate way to describe such a richly textured film, but I found The Best Days of Our Lives to be a beautiful film, well-deserving of its Best Picture and other awards. Your review more than did it justice, and its impact on you was clear throughout.

[@michaelwolfe7105]

Betty Davis said, "The Best Years Of Our Lives" was the best movie ever made, PERIOD! A PROFOUND AND COMPLETELY ACCURATE STATEMENT EVEN TODAY.

[@GeneRogers-xl9um]

I found your KZbin video by accident. I’m a Vietnam War veteran. My father fought in WW2 in the Pacific and his older brother fought in Europe. As one who’s had PTSD and it was not really recognized after the Vietnam War I commend you on a brilliant analogy of this movie. No words can convey the deep crevice of emotions this film brings to me. I honor my father who never spoke about his experiences and my uncle. As you might know I was drafted into the Army and after my training quickly deployed to Vietnam. It was a harrowing experience that still haunts me. I was not like and couldn’t wear my uniform in public places. I was identified as part of the war. To me this is one of the greatest movies about returning veterans who each one has to deal with fitting back into American society and trying to make it work! The dearest scene is Wilma helping Homer take of his hooks in his bedroom brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for your honest and deep respect for the movie’s characters and their adjustments back to civilian life. May God keep you on your mission to keep your site active with human incite no matter how much it hurts or tells the truth. ❤

[@THEPETERC1]

JW, your absolute best video essay: deep, thoughtful, moving, mature, and persuasive--the eloquence of a beautiful spirit. I actually thought of the Gettysburg Address and Faulkner's Nobel Prize acceptance speech while you were speaking. I was born in the same year as the film, and have lived to walk the the battle fields of the Civil War and the cemetery at Pearl Harbor, and have worked within sight of Arlington National Cemetery. Peter Collins, USAF 1964-1968. I write this as a civilian at heart, and not as an "old soldier".

[@salramos4518]

I know it's been 3 years ago since your review but I would like to share my compliments to your review of this film. It is by far one of my favorites as well. Great work on the review of the details of this movie and I'll be looking at the rest as well. Should you be given any suggestions on additional review of any other classic films, I'd be happy to contribute. Thanks for your video!😊

[@4Topwood]

I hope you won't hesitate in future to make a video about a movie that's been extensively covered by others. Your POV is always interesting, insightful and enjoyable. Now back to the video!

[@zero0karaoke]

Yeah 'cause I don't watch or read those other critics lol

[@winterburden]

True. I only watch Jerome Weiselberry, tbh.

[@marbanak]

@@zero0karaoke BINGO!

[@4Topwood]

@@winterburden Same here.

[@billolsen4360]

Yes, she has a very bright analytical mind.

[@duleybraza4558]

A beautiful review of one of my favorite movies and you nailed it at 23.30, as a vet, I kind of choked up. I appreciate your comments. On another note, Harold Russell wasn't just your typical pretty boy actor he was a life long advocate for the disabled veteran. He was appointed by President Johnson to chair the presidents committee on hiring the handicapped, which led to modifications to government buildings allowing access. I think his contributions to enabling the disabled in the workplace is often overlooked.

[@duleybraza4558]

Tennyson's "The Charge of the Light Brigade" is well known, but Rudyard Kipling wrote a lesser known poem titled "The Last of the Light Brigade" after seeing what happened to the surviving veterans of that war.

[@jody6851]

Harold Russell was never a trained or professional actor. After this film, he did not remain in show business and only appeared in another film many years later, even after he became the only actor in history to win two Academy Awards for the same role (best supporting actor and a special achievement Oscar for the role of Homer contributing to the morale of wounded vets). Russell actually lost his hands in an Army training accident explosion -- not from wounds in battle. William Wyler discovered him while watching an Army training film Russell was in called "Diary of a Sergeant" to help wounded vets with their rehabilitation. This film can be found on KZbin. Wyler immediately saw Russell had such film presence he had to cast him in the film as Homer. In the book, Homer was suffering from PTSD -- not the loss of his hands, but Wyler decided that wasn't visual enough for a film compared to Russell's prosthetics, though of course the scene of Dana Andrews having a PTSD nightmare inserts that condition back into the film. I knew a man who had the same hook prosthetics due to a chemical explosion that blew off his hands while mixing a solution as part of his work. Very similar to what actually happened to Harold Russell.

[@flaps_rickenbacker247]

One of the few movies that can move me to tears. Thank you for articulating that which I cannot, You are wise beyond your years.

[@scott09g96]

Wow, you honor our Veterans beautifully. I'm having a hard time finding the words to type here, because this was very moving. I'm not a cryer, but this made the backs of my eyes prickle. Sooo well done! As you know, I was one of those who didn't see any real action during my time in the service and consequently felt my contribution was pretty insignificant. But for the first time in years this made me feel like my small sacrifice actually mattered. So thank you for that. I haven't seen this movie, and have no idea how I ever missed it. Definitely going to hunt it down. You did an outstanding job describing how it feels to come home after being gone for so long and having to re-adjust to normal life. It looks like this movie nailed it. I think another movie that pulled this off well was The Hurt Locker. Not sure of you've seen it but toward the end the main character comes home from his deployment and there's a scene where he's standing in a grocery store just looking at all the options, appearing lost, overwhelemed and out of place. He's been surviving with the barest of minimums for so long that even a grocery store just seems surreal to him. He later has a small breakdown with his wife and says something along the lines of "there's a war going on over there and nobody here cares about it." Its an accurate depiction of what you go through. I was never in a war zone, but spent months at a time away from my family on other state-side mobilizations. Your whole life is your service. But the world moves on without you. You miss your loved ones and think of them often, but come home and feel like they didn't even notice you were gone. It takes time to adjust back into a civilian routine, but even when you do there's a part of your time away that never leaves. Its always with you. I've been out of the Army for abt ten years now, and still have dreams I'm back on some barracks a thousand miles away and am a year away from seeing any loved ones again. Thanks again for this touching review. Your content just gets better and better, and you knocked it out of the park as always with this one. Hope you had a happy Veterans Day.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you, not just for your service, but for being so open about your own experience. Your story testifies to the film's timelessness.

[@rmoore1686]

The Best Years Of Our Lives is on KZbin. If you watch it you’ll love ❤️ it. It’s a wonderful movie.

[@victordelacruz7985]

I recently saw william wyler being interviewed and was in awe of his energy. much like francis ford coppola.it seems like their strength and energy never ends.like john carpenter says being director is a very hard job

[@debedwards1717]

I just watched this movie for the first time yesterday. I loved it. Thanks to KZbin I can watch all the movies I want from the 30’s to 50’s.

[@lewstone5430]

Just watched it for the first time yesterday. I graduated from a military college, have been around a lot of active duty personnel and veterans, and this film got to me. It’s still free on KZbin as of January 2024.

[@roachman1412]

Glad to see young people discovering these old classics I just got the blu-ray amazon for $11.00 your doing a good job keep it up thanks for honoring are veterans 👍

[@ron_91260]

This is really a well-expressed take on Best Years. It's really a favourite of mine and a timeless classic. I try to get others to watch it but it's a limited group that will sit down for a 78 year-old film. You hit it right on the head with the contrasting hierarchies faced by the vets (rank vs. wealth) as well as the chaotic modernity the postwar years presented, even as early as 1946. Most reviews pay lip service to the music but Hugo Freidhofer's score really adds power to the emotional scenes as well as painting the characters with their own thematic colours. You are correct in the "Taps" and "Over There" reference, and most of the cues have a lovely Americana tone that often preserves hope in the most dire of situations. This music sounds as if it were from Aaron Copland's own pen. Your writing style can get detailed without sounding academic, and the excerpts are spot-on. Thanks for the review! Ron

[@davidschecter5247]

What a fabulous review you gave. I enjoyed it almost as much as this movie, easily one of the greatest American motion pictures of all-time. I think it will always be timeless. It's still relevant today, 75ish years later.

[@anthonyperez5757]

I've seen this movie at least three times but it wasn't till I saw your review of it that I really appreciated the camera work. Thank you.

[@Weiselberry]

I'm glad I could point out something new!

[@stevebiddell2839]

Great review Jerry (Now Voyager?). Very warm appreciation for your veterans! Ironically only the petulant Marie complained about giving up the best years of her life - none of the guys did,even having sacrificed so much!

[@petermetcalfe6722]

I've seen it several times and saw it just a few months ago. It's one of my all time favourites and like you I always get emotional at the beginning. A friend of mine met Theresa Wright in London UK in the late '70s and she thanked her for asking for her autograph. She was a lovely lady.

[@danvalenti]

When I listen to her takes on older movies I have hope for the future

[@patrick4662]

She really is something else

[@carolelinda6476]

My all-time favorite movie. I never fail to be crying at the end.

[@tonydeluna8095]

Hi Jerome, I will be here always supporting your channel whatever days you upload a video, God bless you and your family

[@mariafinn1082]

Beautiful film. I have watched it at least 7-8 times. Just hearing the opening credits music makes my eyes tear up. So many great comments here showing worthy appreciation for this masterpiece. There is not a single moment in this film that doesn't hold the viewer's rapt attention. I can't put into words how much I adore this film. My father served in the Pacific in WW2, came home, married my Mom and raised me and my five siblings. They truly were The Greatest Generation. Homer and Wilma's street reminds me so much of the street of my childhood. IMHO, the best movie ever made.

[@AllanGonnella]

Whenever I see this film it reminds me of my father after WWII. After the war he settled in Southern California (moving from Minneapolis) and there was absolutely no work for the returning GI's. He was working in a statuary for decorative yard statues and fountains for like 25 cents an hour. The country was still transitioning from a war-time economy to a peace-time economy and jobs were hard to get. After getting married in 1946 they lived in a little apartment above a garage in a back alley and could barely afford the rent. Times were really rough for a few years until the late 40's.

[@homeworkandheartwork1724]

I immediately went and watched this, as it was a WWII era movie I hadn’t seen. Oh man, how beautiful. And I couldn’t even get through the first 15 min or so without crying. So so good! Thank you for recommending this!

[@Weiselberry]

I'm so glad that you enjoyed the film!

[@rayrain5505]

I cannot think of anything else to add to what you had commented on. Everything was on point. "The Best Years of Our Lives" is one of the best movies that I have ever seen. You are not wrong about not being choked up within 30 minutes of the movie.

[@williammedford5891]

A warm and wise review of an important movie. I was born in 1946, and served back to back tours in Vietnam, so thanks for the love.

[@Vlad65WFPReviews]

Best Years is a tremendous film, I've seen it several times, and, as usual, you did it justice with passion, insight and intelligence. Well done, JW!

[@WilliamBrothers]

This movie is so incredibly powerful. My dad and grandfather were WW2 vets and had a special place in their heart for this movie

[@ericlawrence8753]

Very good review. I was nice to get your comments about this excellent film.

[@lbbotpn5429]

I get choked up just thinking about Homer's homecoming... I got a little choked up when you just showed the stills... Nicely done, JW...!

[@rsacchi100]

Great review and wonderful tribute at the end. Having the veterans in the nose of a B-17 and the view of the countryside was a fantastic idea. It shows them they are home and what a beautiful country it is. The scene in the junkyard is also touching because it's easy to empathize with the feeling the former captain might think he also belongs in a junkyard. It's within this mass of scap metal that he makes the right decision that gets him on track for civilian life. There are so many little things in the film that got things so right. Thanks for posting.

[@SabrinApollo]

What a great overview of my favourite movie. I watch it a few times a year. I never noticed Fred holding Homer’s hook and shielding him after Fred punched the “and what for” guy. Every time I do watch it, I am amazed at all the nuances I have missed when I discover a new one.

[@paulgxi]

Always one of my favorite films since I first saw it in the 50's or early 60s. At every stage of my life it has seemed that Ithere is something different that becomes a salient aspect of the movie. I'm glad you chose this film to scan carefully and in depth. The characters, the story, the music and the cinematography come togather unforgettably in a way that, whenever I think of the actors (March, Wright, Andrews, Loy, Carmichael, O'Donnel, and of course Russell) this movie for me is the paragon of their acting performance . Well done; I'll be searching for some of the other classic films you've reviewed.

[@tim2269]

Strong work JW.This film and this generation bring my feelings to the surface everytime

[@liquidbronstein]

On WW2 PTSD can I recommend Tunes of Glory (1960).Which Hitchcock thought 'one of the finest films ever made' and Anthony Burgess considered exceptional.

[@esaaecha]

Hello, well your review of this film is not only heart warming, but intelligent and comforting. Thank you for quenching my thirst with a tall drink of guaranteed interest. I hope i hear more from you in the future. May GOD richly bless you.

[@dclarkin4671]

You do a really good job breaking this wonderful masterpiece down. Great job. My absolute favorite movie in the world. Nothing can beat if for human drama, nostalgia for a past time, and honor for our veterans. Well done.

[@artbagley1406]

You've created a touching, emotional analysis of TBYoOL as well as tossing in film production history and nuts-and-bolts lessons of cinematography. Were I a professor of film history at a university, your video would be required viewing with, perhaps, a related essay question on the course's final exam! A very apt salute to America's veterans on their special day of recognition. Thank you for your insights and heartfelt look into such a great film!

[@sumo0172]

Thank you for sharing. Your personal thoughts are just as impactful as facts you provide. This movie always brings tears to my eyes as well. I have many friends and family who are veterans and I remember this being one of the first movies I saw that helped me understand the struggles of veterans. Your words about and to veterans are amazing! Bravo!

[@rickpalacio7]

Hi Jerome! I'm so glad you decided to give a full, dedicated review to this film even though you've mentioned it in the past. I've always felt that it's one of the very greatest movies that Hollywood has ever produced. I feel that way for many reasons, most of which you covered eloquently in your thoughtful and multi-faceted review. One of the main reasons it's a masterpiece for me is that, although I love many films made in the Hollywood system because they're entertaining, beautifully executed and enthralling, it may be said that not all of them are "true". This one is. True, compassionate, honest and very human. It speaks from both the heart and the head. What more can one ask from a film?

[@GoodmanMIke59]

20:49 The penultimate scene showing all six principal characters is amazing. Everybody gets swallowed up except Fred and Peggy.

[@kurtlarson6678]

Thank you for your excellent tribute to our men and women who serve our country as we remember our veterans. Your review was insightful as always with many interesting facts about the making of the movie. Thank you for your work!

[@peterconetta399]

Thanks for a brilliant review of this truly classic movie. I've seen it many times but still can't resist watching it again every time they show it on TCM.

[@63MGB1]

Now I need to watch the film for perhaps my fourth time to see your fascinating observations I previously missed!

[@zantigar]

One of your very best reviews of one of the most beautiful movies ever to come out of Hollywood. I groaned, "I dunno..." when I saw the 26 min. time length on the thumbnail before hitting play, but your discussion was so brilliant and moving, the entire thing was over before I knew it! "I'd never categorize this film as a romance, but it is romantic." - so perfectly put! I'm so glad you indeed took the time and effort to bring this masterpiece to everyone's attention. Your sincerity and generosity are greatly appreciated!

[@jasonpeters9295]

You've done a beautiful job of bringing out the jewels in this movie. I was interested in seeing what post-war movies were made in the late forties and I chose this movie by chance. And I'm glad I did. I was a little worried at first because of the almost 3 hours run time, but the movie starts off right away hitting my internal, emotion-loaded soft spots with the unbelievably real coming home scenes, and the oncoming, inevitable family transitions. To put it in old fashioned terms, this movie really does have a happy ending, i.e. everybody makes out on the deal, in the end everyone is happy. Happiness is everywhere. Your commentary gave me some extraordinary highlights I did not notice at first, but I more fully appreciate now. Great job on the video. Thanks!

[@williamblakehall5566]

Thank you for this. I love this film, I sit down for it any time it comes on. I must be one of the few people who related to Al Stephenson's son Rob, so gawky and earnest and awkward. (You're right, we get a particularly great performance from Fredric March.) We always like the new data you bring, Rome, but we also enjoy and value your instincts and impressions, so please never talk yourself out of giving us your own personal take on anything already widely discussed, because this essay worked out beautifully. Your mix of sensitive heart and analytic mind packs a mighty wallop. PTSD was indeed an awkward subject way back then -- I recall a short film using a DOG to convey the problem of PTSD in a kind of public service announcement. A DOG. "He just doesn't seem like his old self." Ouch! I also appreciate the Hoagy Carmichael character of Butch. The "And for what?" scene always infuriates and moves me. I call it "alchemy" whenever a thousand little elements of a movie all seem to come out right, and that's what this is. By the by, my parents met in the Air Force, I would literally not exist without their service. Very much appreciated, Rome, owl be seeing you.

[@peterermish3017]

Your essay was very very good. Wise, insightful, sincere. Impressive.

[@michaelreeves1429]

Just discovered you this morning and watching your reviews. You're doing great. and yes I liked and Subscribed. That said what I feel that really sets this movie apart is William Wyler understanding as a disabled war vet himself having lost most of his hearing flying on bombing raids - to the point he used head phones to hear dialogue when making pictures after the war . He himself went through PTSD, having issues both professionally and personally. Great review. I think a great scene is when Dana Andrews is trying to buzz into his apartment and falls down drunk. - He was really drunk according to Ms Loy. there's more about that - but he cleaned up his act and turned in a great performance.

[@CraigAurandt]

It has been a very long time since i watched this film. But yes. It is worth viewing. And it does my heart good to hear her speak of the need to honor and reslect our nations veterans

[@sallybrown4947]

Terrific Job. I talked to a WWII Vet just yesterday and brought up the Movie and he knew it and loved it.

[@billcouch8308]

Excellent insightful analysis of the greatest film ever made!!

[@Samiurium]

I am here because of Reddit. When I saw all of your thumbnails I was taken aback because they took me back to a time when all videos on KZbin looked just like yours. I am so appreciative of your filming style and prose. I am also appreciative of your channel name: Jerome is a favorite film name of mine from "Gattaca". This video is also my first full review of yours as I have also recently watched "The Best Years of Our Lives". Thank you so much for the history lesson on camera shots from this movie. I may have never known had I not watched your review. I am looking forward to perusing the rest of your reviews and making better attempts to watch the classics. P.S. You are hilarious in your bloopers and non-review videos i.e. anniversary; please never stop being you.

[@Weiselberry]

Thanks! I'm happy to have you here, and I'm glad I was able to point out some additional things about the film. Hope you continue to enjoy the channel!

[@howardfrank6050]

I'm the son of a World War II vet ('43-'46) who exhibited the "Greatest Generation" values seen in this amazing film. Dad quietly went about his life, served others, and like Fred Derry, seldom discussed and frequently downplayed his military service. He did what was expected. That was his generation. So, like you, I tear up when Fred's dad reads General Doolittle's citation. That sizes up The Greatest Generation's approach to life. And I'd add for the record--they sold pots and pans for scrap, lived on rationed food, and didn't dump billions on future generations to fund the war--they bought war bonds. Your review is excellent--and the first I've seen from "Jerome." Your delivery and demeanor are self-effacing and sincere. I can see why you've hit the eight-year mark. Perhaps you should do a "Wilder versus Wyler: Two Paths to Redemption" segment. Wilder takes the low road--sarcasm and self-interest lie at the center. Wyler speaks to cardinal virtues--love of family, love of country, courage (physical and moral), and decency. Sergeant Sefton of "Stalag 17" is the anti-Fred Derry. But in the end, Sefton assists the escaping flyer and reveals the spy in their midst. C.C. Baxter of "The Apartment" is not Judah Ben Hur, but even Baxter becomes a "mensch" in the end. I probably identify with Wilder's worldview more than Wyler's, but understand there's plenty of room for both. Meanwhile, keep up the good work!

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you!

[@caomhan84]

I love that top...fall AND owls! And yes I like that movie. I saw it and the first thing that struck me was when they were in the boneyard with all of the planes being disassembled. At first I was sad when I saw that, because I love classic war aviation, but then I thought about it and it's sort of a metaphor for the soldiers returning home. They're no longer needed for war and now they have to strip down their training and return to civilian life. As for one of the storylines, let's just say that it hits close to home for me. I have cerebral palsy, so watching this movie was a bit emotional. I don't tear up often in movies, I really don't. But this one made me tear up. I really do love it, for many reasons, not least of which is a great portrait of post-war life. And I'll echo another comment below. It doesn't matter if this film has been covered ad nauseam by other people from KZbin or by scores of movie critics for the past 75 years. You're the only "movie person" I watch on KZbin. So your viewpoint is the only one that matters when it comes to classic movies. I'll always enjoy hearing it.

[@charlieeckert4321]

My all time favorite and it has been for years. One of the best pieces of directing I have ever seen is when Peggy covers Fred's eyes in the nightmare scene. How perfect!

[@apricotcookie4850]

I love this film and watch it every single time it shows on TCM. Your review was as amazing as the film itself: touching, intelligent, perceptive, sensitive, profound. Thank you for this. And for your spot on, heartfelt tribute to our veterans, past, present, and future. Your delicate touch packed quite an emotional wallop. Thank you!

[@cjpreach]

LOVE - LOVE - LOVE this Review! Thorough. Informative. Interesting. Well done, my dear.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@portagecommunicationscallc1417]

Fabulous review after seeing the movie just last week. My Dad was a WWII Pacific War combat vet and had some issues returning to a normal life. My wife's grandfather was a captain in the Imperial Japanese Navy during the war. We will watch TBYOOL together this week.

[@jadehobman]

I really loved your analysis, so enjoyable to watch, done in such a respectful and kind way, the use of words to describe - I wish my vocab was a top notch as yours! I loved the movie, especially the surprise of Peggy and the Captain getting together, and how kind the three main women characters were.

[@rdleahey]

Your review is absolutely brilliant. I never realized how long the move was until you pointed it out. Now I see that time for me was suspended while I was engrossed in this great film. My only regret is that this movie was in competition with another of my very favorite moves; "It's a Wonderful Life", which was robbed of an Academy Award by bad timing. And, as a man, I must say - prior to watching this movie, if I had occasion to say, "Wilma", I would say, "Wilma". Now every time I hear or think of "Wilma", I think, "Wilma!". She is to DIE for.

[@peterermish3017]

Your review was intelligent and insightful. It will be a reference point for me when considering other reviews.

[@jonjacques7389]

Wow ! Bravo Zulu ... and then some ! That was absolutely without a doubt the very BEST review I have ever seen or read regarding this wonderful movie. I have watched this cinematic masterpeice on multiple occasions, and as a combat veteran, I can relate to what all three characters/veterans in this film were going through, covering the entire spectrum of the trauma of war, their return, and the uncertainty and re-adjustment to civilian life, not to mention the PTSD aspect of their experience(s). Their performance and depictions were so very spot-on. The dialogue in this movie was enjoyable, memorable, and relatable - some of it very sage. I particularly remember a serious moment in the movie during a conversation between Peggy (played by Teresa Wright) and her father Al (Frederic March) in which he accuses her of being "possessed of all the wisdom of the ages" in response to her announcement that she's going to break-up Fred's (Dana Andrews) marriage. "So, you're going to break-up that marriage, are you?" her father replied. "What are you going to use ... an ax?" LOL !! Yeah, I LOVE that movie. So much more I could say ... Btw, have you reviewed any other Teresa Wright memorable films such as "The Pride of the Yankees" or "Mrs. Miniver?" And thank you again ! Jon-Blair Jacques

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you! I've talked about a few Teresa Wright films. Along with this one, Shadow of a Doubt got a solo review (which included a mention of The Steel Trap), and I've done mini reviews of The Pride of the Yankees, Pursued, and The Capture. I'm sure I'll review Mrs. Miniver and The Little Foxes someday. (I've seen both.)

[@danielboyer5073]

Well done, Jerome this is My favorite film & I watched it for over 50 years. You Covered a Great Host of details , other reviewers didn't touch on. The music, William Wyler's directing, too much to text but you covered 99.9% of important facts of the movie 🎬 there is a kinda sorta sequel to best years, that came out 5 years later : I WANT YOU SADLY WE WERE IN A NEW WAR.... KOREA & NOT A POLICE ACTION . SOME OF THE CAST OF BEST YEARS WAS IN THIS FILM, DANA ANDREWS , RAY COLLINS WHO WAS FREDIC MARCH'S BANK BOSS IN BEST YEARS. THE ACTOR WHO PLAYED HARROLD RUSSEL'S DAD IN BEST YEARS WAS IN THIS. ALSO PEGGY DOW WHO WAS IN HARVEY WITH JIMMY STEWART IS IN THIS OUT OF THE MAINCAST OF I WANT YOU SHE IS THE LAST MAIN CAST LIVING MEMBER OF THIS FILM. ALSO JIM BACKUS (MR. MAGOO 'S VOICE & MR. HOWELL OF GILLIAN'S ISLAND 📺) IS IN IT. WHO ALSO AGAIN CO - STARED WITH DANA ANDREWS IN HIS LAST FILM... BROTHER JACK ABOUT JFK . BUT GETTING BACK TO BEST YEARS , YOU DID AN AWESOME JOB OF COVERING BEST YEARS YOURS IS THE BEST REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIC 🎬 FILM. IT HAS & WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME !! THANK YOU FOR DOING JUSTICE BY IT ! D.BOYER USAF (Ret.)

[@dondemko2934]

Jerome, this was my favorite of all of your reviews! All of the specific scenes and moments you cited (especially Homer looking at the dawn on board the plane and Fred's father reading his medal citations) were scenes that mean the world to me. The moment where Wilma forces Homer to make his final decision was one of the most poignant and beautiful in cinema history, and I can never watch it too many times. Your depth and insights are awesome; I don't see anyone online who does better film reviews than you. Keep up the great work.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you! I agree, that sequence between Wilma and Homer is so perfectly done, and I love that they took their time with it. Nothing in this film feels rushed, and it's all the better for it.

[@jmf5246]

My Dad got drafted in 42 and spent three years in some hell holes im the Pacific theater. He had never left his small central NY manufacturing town before he headed across the pacific. He often told me this was a great movie and reminded him of life when he got home

[@frankg7177]

Thanks for your wonderful, insightful review of this great film!

[@rosskirby9886]

Thanks JW for the powerful and indeed poignant review of the film, THE BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES. I agree with your assessment of the movie; it is an absolute beauty! Every aspect of the filmaking process - as you so clearly articulate - works to perfection in this film - all under the masterful direction of William Wyler. I cannot remember a film where there are so many unforgettable scenes. It is a masterpiece. By the way, I would like to hear what you think about other films directed by William Wyler, such as Jezebel (1938), The Letter (1940) and, if you haven't reviewed it already, Roman Holiday (1952). Thanks again for your great work. Look forward to your next review.

[@custardflan]

What a wonderful detailed review. Thanks. I cannot watch this movie without weeping from the first airplane ride. Great reaction.

[@TheMikemedia]

I stopped myself from making the suggestion that you should review this movie. I had sudden confidence. "Just search her channel, it's certainly already there." It is. And you, and your review don't disappoint. I was listening to the 1944 Pied Pipers rendition of, Dream. I've always felt that this song would have been perfect somewhere in the soundtrack of this wonderful movie. Though it may have been a bit too on the nose.

[@janishannes9221]

This is one of my favorite movies, and you’ve done an extraordinary commentary on it! Glad I found your channel.

[@Keep-Believing-Mark536]

Great Review. I love this movie, this film is one of my favorites and from the first frame of the movie, we're all on point with every character in the film we never lose interest in the characters - we know exactly what they are going through, we feel the unrequired love, the hopeful love, and the resurrection of love that may have gotten lost all throughout the story. I love Ben-Hur, but for me this is William Wyler's masterpiece. This film will be just as important 150 years from now as it was the day it was released. Because everyone past, present, and future goes through this, especially the veterans and their families. I love the way you describe the film, and the story, and characters. I look forward to your next review. Keep up the Great Work.

[@ralphcoviello8430]

Well done! Could not have been said better than your wonderful appreciation of a great film and its equally great score. Thanks!

[@brianfischer149]

Another Wonderful review of a must see movie ! You have a special talent and insight along with a very sweet spirit ! Best Years of our Lives has Unconditional love, sacrifice, patriotism, family, what is really important in living life ! My Wife's very favorite movie ! She watched it this afternoon when I was out visiting my Mom at the nursing home.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you! And hello to you and your wife!

[@davefsmith6040]

I'm a fan of the film - you brought out a few things that I wasn't aware of, making my appreciation for the film all the deeper.... Question ... would you consider this an "Anti-War" film..?? It certainly does not attempt to show the "Gung-Ho, we're the best - fruits of our victory" feeling of the films that were so prevalent at the time... YET.. it didn't actually condemn the war, but pointed out the unspoken, unexposed tragedy ... regardless, another WONDERFUL review.... You're videos are so rich, focused, engaging...and I think you're great, Jeri .

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you! I wouldn't call it an antiwar film per se because to me it doesn't fit with more overt and outspoken films in that category. But it does have a subtle bite, questioning the cost and criticizing certain attitudes. My feeling is that it falls somewhere in the middle and (for the most part) takes the point of view that war is horrible, but there are times when it can't be avoided. And when such times come, those who go off to fight need the support of those they're fighting for, both during the war and after it. Interesting question!

[@rmoore1686]

I didn’t take it as being anti-war. It’s an honest film. It deals with reality.

[@kevinrussell1144]

I neglected to say it in my earlier comment, but let me add now......... a really solid, thoughtful review of a true classic.

[@Weiselberry]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@tallmikbcroft6937]

Amazing! I just watched this movie for the first time yesterday. I love your review. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@arctos49]

This was a wonderful, insightful and sensitive review of one of my very favorite films. I am 75 years old and have seen this film several times and I am not ashamed at all to admit that there are scenes in it that bring me to tears. I believe that it was another of my favorite directors, the great Billy Wilder, who commented that "The Best Years of Our Lives" was a perfect film. On a personal note, I will look forward to reading more movie reviews by Ms. Weiselberry and I just subscribed.

[@dscameron]

WOW! Your review is insightful, academic and passionate. That’s a wonderful perspective to bring to a movie review. You manage to impart film facts, the character and charisma of the actors and the quality of the film and its reception and perspective at the time of the release. Great work! I’m looking forward to watching more of your reviews. Thanks.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you!

[@Jeff_Lichtman]

One of my favorite moments in this movie comes when Peggy says to her parents that they never had and trouble. Milly turns to Al and says, '"We never had any trouble." How many times have I told you I hated you and believed it in my heart? How many times have you said you were sick and tired of me; that we were all washed up? How many times have we had to fall in love all over again?' A very adult response in a very adult movie. Thank you, JW, for this thoughtful, sensitive, and eloquent review.

[@Weiselberry]

Yes, that's a great moment!

[@arnepianocanada]

The summary may be your best monologue ever. It recalls the horror of Vietnam veterans returning from a war they did not ask to fight, derided and belittled by antiwar masses.

[@arnepianocanada]

Myrna Loy was ROBBED of at least an Oscar nomination.

[@kathleenharris3403]

I agree!

[@kenfreeman8888]

Fantastic movie. Beautiful review. Thank you.

[@taanbrown4275]

Great job Jerome! Ur approaching 7000subs! Gee wiz! I feel like I remember when it was in the hundreds? Maybe under, and you've come a long way. Thank you for taking the time and all,of your dedication to this. Idk the first thing about filming takes or edititing, and I appreciate what you've done and how much you have learned on the fly. Uss Philadelphia helmsman/planesman here, machinist mate, petty officer of the deck, guard sentry and look out. This is the perfect stuff to watch to relax:) wish me luck in school this week! H14signing off.

[@joseernestosuter8514]

Wowwww! Excellent analysis of that great movie! The truth is that I am surprised to see a girl so young and with so much knowledge of classic cinema. Congratulations from Argentina.

[@billolsen4360]

Your insights on the story are illuminating. Wish more people like you were doing professional movie reviews.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you for those kind words!

[@WilliamTheMovieFan]

The scene where Homer salutes Al and Fred as they drive away in the taxi always gets me. So much is going on in that scene, but it seems so simple.

[@RSEFX]

This movie conjures up so many thoughts, moments and, sadly, regrets and feelings of loss, that, to me, in spite of the extreme emotions, it is an absolute MUST-see for everyone. It moved me very much to see a profound, deeply-felt and expressed commentary by someone so removed in time (but obviously not in feelings) from that tumultuous, world and people-changing era. Of course, my thoughts go back to my parents (now long gone) and the anguish they endured and the strengths they summoned (my dad was stationed in the jungles of the Pacific in that war) in those trying years, a time, no doubt, that changed, impacted them for the rest of their lives in many, unfortunately never fully buried but often invisible-on-the-surface ways. This review is a treasure, like the film itself, as first, inspiring us about the best in humanity after its having survived its worst, and, at deepest heart, as a reminder, a remembrance, a requiem.

[@davidfrench2653]

Hello, I enjoyed very much your review of one of my all-time favorite movies which I just watched for the first time in many years. I think your commentary is spot-on, and you pointed out several things which I had missed. I will subscribe and look forward to seeing more of your work.

[@dennisjames6753]

Been years since I've seen this film. I love the cast, themes and production of this film. I should get a copy of it.

[@ronaldconiglio9942]

I first saw the film when I was 8 or 9 years old ( in 1946 or 47 when it was shown at a "neighborhood" theater in Buffalo, N.Y. ). It's hard to adequately describe the affect it had on me then as well to explain how strongly enduring it ( especially its imagery and music ) has been throughout my life. I'm glad I watched your ( beautifully done ) review which popped up shortly after I watched the film today.

[@LouisL1963]

Very good analysis of one of my all time favourite films. There isn't anything I don't like about "The Best Years of Our Lives" - the acting, cinematography, script, direction... It's all there. It's almost the perfect movie. How Wyler managed to balance the three narratives amazes me, and Homer's story really drives home his struggle with being accepted in society, and his disability potentially destroying his relationship. The scene with Cathy O'Donnell in the woodshed is very powerful indeed. Just a minor point about your backstory for Fred Derry - he was in Europe with the USAAF, not the Pacific Theater where Al & Homer spent the war. Thought you did your country proud with the recognition of what your servicemen & women do. I think that's something you in the USA do very well.

[@PedroPatsf]

Excellent review! My all time favorite movie. I have it on DVD but still watch it when it comes on TCM.

[@sedumplant]

Well done! I saw it when I was a teen during those years and have seen it since a number of times. I still get emotional over it. My three uncles served in the army during that war and thankfully came back physically whole but not without emotional and psychological trauma. From my perspective it seems as if that war was different from all those that have followed, but I would be guessing to suggest the differences. Thank you!

[@marycampanella2433]

You did a wonderful job reviewing this movie. You maintained continuity and retold this very long movie in a very short time, hitting all the important scenes and themes. Also, some of the important technical and musical features, but not excessively. You even gave an excellent synopsis of the post-war ethos which this movie depicts-- the good and the ugly. This is the best review of any film I've seen on KZbin. Nice job.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you!

[@myrondyal6117]

I AM A VET AND EVERY TIME I HEAR THIS MUSIC I CRY.....IT JUST HITS ME IN THE HEART AND MY GRIEF FOR MY FRIENDS THAT NEVER CAME HOME!!! MYRON DYAL

[@iakona23]

Oh yes, one of the all-time great movies by any measure. It’s so good. This was the highest grossing film since Gone With The Wind when it was released.

[@jody6851]

I believe it also was the biggest hit the same year in Great Britain, as well. The British could completely relate to the film for obvious reasons.

[@tommoncrieff1154]

@@jody6851 Yes. It’s a purely American story in its specifics but its characters and emotions are universal.

[@rivkabornstein]

Your reviews are fantastic! detailed, excellent multi faceted analysis.

[@Weiselberry]

Thank you!

[@michaelcooper3425]

I saw this in the early 80's (I think), when they would still show classics on regular TV. I haven't seen it since because I found it heartbreaking, I feel the same about the Omaha Beach landing in Saving Private Ryan. I only saw it once at the theater. The one scene that stuck with me was when Fred walked through the aircraft graveyard. Excellent review, as always.

[@bertpunkaficionado8357]

The Best Years Of Our Lives is my absolute favorite film. I'm hard-pressed to think of a film I love more. Honorable mention would go to The Grapes of Wrath (winner for film/novel combo, and also Gregg Toland as DP) and It's A Wonderful Life (I love more every year). I love the blank verse style for Kantor's novel. William Wyler is so underappreciated.