Today’s quick review: U-571. During World War II, a crippled German U-boat presents the Allies with a rare shot at one of the Enigma machines used to encrypt German radio transmissions. An American submarine commanded by Mike Dahlgren (Bill Paxton) is sent to capture the German sub and retrieve the Enigma device. The success of the mission depends on Andy Tyler (Matthew McConaughey), a young lieutenant eager for his first command.
U-571 is a naval thriller that depicts the American efforts to capture the Enigma machine during World War II. The uncertain nature of submarine warfare lends itself well to the film’s tense naval battles, where bravery, resourcefulness, and a hefty dose of luck are required to survive. Dahlgren and Tyler are forced into a series of ploys and desperate measures when their mission doesn’t go as smoothly as planned.
Apart from its climactic battles, U-571 also tries to capture the personal side of war. Andy Tyler wants command but is unprepared for the difficult choices it requires. His men are young and ill-equipped for the close-quarters fighting their mission requires. The magnitude of what they are trying to do and the tenuous nature of the success are driven home by the script itself and a fairly capable dramatic cast.
However, U-571 falls short of its ambitions. The drama it sets up has potential, but the film never quite figures out how to cash in on it. Rather than complement each other, the plot and the characters fight for the same screen time. What should be rich character arcs are merely sketched out, depriving the story of some of its emotional payoff. The plot also has pacing issues brought about by its long setup and sharp twists.
As a result, U-571 is a competent thriller that does not rise to the level of its peers. U-571 has enough to offer in terms of drama and tension to make for a satisfying watch. Fans of war movies or naval combat should give it a watch for its story and its action alike. But those hoping for a fuller realization of its potential may be more impressed with The Hunt for Red October, Dunkirk, or Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World.
6.6 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for a tense plot and solid acting, lacking the depth and cohesion of other war movies.