brancwp
As a son of a military combat veteran I loved this movie. It is hard to get someone to talk about their experiences. I know my dad only talked one night about his...but it made me know him more than just about any other discussion we ever had.Not sure why this site needs 10 lines of text for each review. The movie involves a chest of souvenirs from WWII each with a story. Much like many people have in their attics. But they only mean someone when their story is told. The grandson goes on to his own military experiences and souvenirs. A must see every Memorial Day. Put it on your plans or Netflix list.
olsons-338-783067
I really enjoyed the movie, and appreciate a war film thats family friendly and sparks conversation. Memorial Day gave a touching portrayal of how serving our country touches us all... The men and women who serve, the ones waiting at home, the mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, kids, grand kids, and friends. As a fan of James Cromwell, what a treat to see his son - a spitting image- play him as a young man (great actor too). Great to Finally watch a war movie that goes beyond the battlefield scenes. As someone who has family who are Veterans of WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and Iraq (big family), I plan to go back and ask those still living about what's in their footlocker. Maybe the answers will help us in a way that provides insight, healing, and connection. Great movie, and not just for war-buffs or Veterans. Well done!
cassadys
Unlike many war films, this film does more than just portray events and effects of active duty. This film goes further than blood and bullets.is a film which embraces family, and intertwines the family aspect into war. This film is (excuse the cliché) one-of-a-kind. Bennett does an excellent job portraying a young, determined soldier. James and each do an outstanding performance and really tie movie together, really embracing the feel of family (even though they both portray same character but in different times). I highly recommend this film to ANYBODY. Whether you like war films or not, this movie is more than that. This movie, in a way, is every genre. Horror: giving realization of war events and after effects. Suspense: it keeps you on edge of your seat-- it keeps you wanting more. Comedy: some cute quotes which lighten mood after enthralling dramatic scenes. Family: it brings together a sense of love and support. And Romance: in a way, it is a love . You just have to open your heart to hear it.Ten out of ten cannot describe the quality and love that this movie is composed of.
Kyle OMalley
Memorial Day is not meant to be a "war" movie, it is a Veteran's story. Made with Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans, the intent was to convey to our families and friends the impact on the soul of going to war. It is not meant to glorify war, everyone who goes there comes back a lesser person in some ways. Enlightened yes, but all too often hardened also. Being a Veteran of several campaigns I don't see myself ever opening up to my immediate family but someday with time and a bit of distance from those tours of duty will be able to relate some of it to grandchildren as "Bud" Vogel/actor James Cromwell, the Grandfather in the movie did.This movie was helped by a lot of really good people helping to make it this far, and graced by historically significant WWII aircraft. The P38 Lightning is one of only a half dozen flying in the world, the P51 Mustang is one of only a handful that actually flew combat missions in WWII. Fagen Fighters of Granite Falls, Minnesota must be thanked for that. It was made with the invaluable contribution of the WWII Historical Reenactment Society, and many local MN Iraq Veterans used as background actors. It is a story of great significance, and if we can get it told I feel it will do immeasurable good in helping Veterans and their families come to terms with our current return to civilian life. And not least of all, it is a respectful homage to our passing WWII Veterans. In 10 yrs they will all virtually be gone. Our hopes are that the movie will help them, and Veterans of all wars, pass on their first hand experiences and witness to history.
AD
