THE MEN is not the sort of film most people want to see--after all, most of us would rather not think about spinal cord injuries or long-term injuries on soldiers fighting for our country. Because of this, Stanley Kramer was a brave man to make such a film and everyone involved must be commended for NOT making it sappy, clichéd or manipulative. Instead of a film that overly romanticizes the disabled, it shows both the best and worst of human nature--wrinkles and all. I appreciate this a lot, as the characters in the film are, above all things, men--not noble one-dimensional caricatures.
Marlon Brando is the star of this film and his performance was realistic and simple. This was his first film and when the film debuted, none of the actors involved (except for Theresa Wright) were big-name stars. In addition, he was supported by several good but relatively small-time actors and included Jack Webb before his career took off with DRAGNET. I really thought these were excellent casting decisions, as "big name" actors would have made the film seem more polished and "Hollywood-ized". Sure, we all are familiar with Brando now, but at the time he was a newcomer--and a good representation of an average guy.
Because the film involves paralyzed veterans and takes place mostly at a VA hospital (with actual paralyzed vets playing the non-starring roles), the film is very realistic and will most likely elicit a few tears. Bring a hankie and be prepared to see some excellent writing, acting and drama.
Marlon Brando is the star of this film and his performance was realistic and simple. This was his first film and when the film debuted, none of the actors involved (except for Theresa Wright) were big-name stars. In addition, he was supported by several good but relatively small-time actors and included Jack Webb before his career took off with DRAGNET. I really thought these were excellent casting decisions, as "big name" actors would have made the film seem more polished and "Hollywood-ized". Sure, we all are familiar with Brando now, but at the time he was a newcomer--and a good representation of an average guy.
Because the film involves paralyzed veterans and takes place mostly at a VA hospital (with actual paralyzed vets playing the non-starring roles), the film is very realistic and will most likely elicit a few tears. Bring a hankie and be prepared to see some excellent writing, acting and drama.