The war was brutal. Civilians were involved, and people died without any words, making the war even more brutal.
I think Bille August told the story in a calm style. In this movie, you can see the poor but stable rural life (before the soldiers came). Jack and Ying didn't have the same language, and caused some conflicts, but finally they understood each other by gestures and emotions.
I was deeply sad when I saw the ending. :(