G | 2h 58m | Action, Drama, History | 1962
Today movies rely heavily on computer-generated imagery (CGI) for special visual effects, so I marvel at filmmakers from earlier eras who created stunning effects without it. Although these effects may be more time-consuming to construct and synchronize, they often appear far more realistic.
“The Longest Day,” produced in 1962 and directed by Ken Annakin, Andrew Marton, and Gerd Oswald, used practical effects to portray the sweeping scale of the Allied invasion of Normandy, France, on D-Day, giving it a sense of gritty realism. Adding to its authenticity, many of the people featured in the film were World War II veterans themselves.
The script is based on the 1959 novel of the same name by Cornelius Ryan.
As visually realistic as it is, the film truly shines in its emphasis on human moments that hold the expansive narrative together. From privates goofing off in the barracks (been there, done that) to officers anxiously managing their troops while awaiting orders from high command, the first act builds tension and develops the characters. This immerses the viewer in the action and makes them emotionally invested.
The film starts with a slow-burn lead-up to the D-Day landings, introducing main and supporting characters. Despite the bad weather, Supreme Allied Commander Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower (Henry Grace) orders the Allies to launch their assault on the beaches of German-occupied northern France on June 6, 1944.
As the film unfolds, it delves into the actions of those not directly involved in the beach landings, highlighting the efforts of paratroopers who were strategically dropped in key areas before and after the invasion. This includes the daring British glider landings at Pegasus Bridge and the courageous sabotage missions undertaken by the French resistance.
Throughout, the film skillfully presents perspectives from both the Allied and German sides of the invasion. This multi-faceted approach provides a nuanced and balanced portrayal of this historic conflict.
In regard to the German armed forces, or Wehrmacht, we learn how there was significant uncertainty among officials about whether the Normandy landings constituted the actual invasion, or if they were merely a diversion from the real route of the Allied invasion—the Strait of Dover. This uncertainty played a crucial role in the success of the massive assault, as German forces were spread thin and unable to effectively counter the Allies’ combined efforts.
On the Allied side, the film has been acclaimed for its accurate portrayal of the commanders’ reservations about the landings. It vividly depicts how many Allied troops faced devastating machine gun fire on troops landing on the beaches.
The Americans, in particular, entered World War II relatively late and lacked the combat experience of the battle-hardened German troops. The Germans had honed their skills through years of relentless warfare. Moreover, the Germans possessed superior weapons, vehicles, and equipment, further complicating the Allied assault.
One standout scene featured Henry Fonda’s portrayal of Brig. Gen. Theodore Roosevelt Jr. leading his troops across the sands of Utah Beach. It evokes strong patriotism, particularly among military veterans.
Other scenes, like John Wayne’s depiction of Lt. Col. Benjamin Vandervoort holding out against overwhelming odds, convey a do-or-die determination that underscores the critical nature of advancing and holding strategic points.
On the civilian front, the film also highlights the resourcefulness of the French Resistance as it clandestinely aids the invading Allied forces. It pays tribute to the often overlooked contribution by civilians. One memorable moment features an elderly Frenchman witnessing the beginning of the invasion and defiantly waving a flag from his window amid the chaos of war unfolding along the coast.
The film was the ambitious vision of producer Darryl Zanuck, who aimed to create the definitive World War II epic, and he succeeded admirably. Aside from Wayne and Fonda, a constellation of movie stars, including Rod Steiger, Robert Mitchum, Richard Todd, Robert Ryan, Eddie Albert, and Richard Burton, and top actors from European countries, joined Zanuck to ensure the film’s stature as a monumental event. Several of these actors, like Albert, Todd, and Steiger, were World War II veterans themselves and contributed significantly to its authenticity.
“The Longest Day” stands as a powerful, compelling portrayal of one of the most heroic chapters in recent world history. A groundbreaking achievement in its era, its gritty battle sequences achieved without CGI effects, and its vast ensemble of talent continue to inspire awe, patriotism, and reverence today.
