"Bridge" and the Other 34th Best Films

Pre-1973 

The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) David Lean



Sometimes someone can believe so strongly in a pet-value that they can sell their soul to the devil in an effort to defend it. But the question we have to ask ourselves is, “Are we committing more evil in an effort to fight off a small sin?”

In this, the best of Lean’s films, Colonel Nicholson is so concerned with defending the humanity of the men under his command, that he compromises more important principles, like the need to thwart the enemy. But the story is told in such a way that the viewer can sympathize and understand the slippery slope upon which he found himself. And, the climax sees him coming to his senses and sacrificing himself to correct his mistake.

But that turn-around is only so satisfying because it was not simply misguided ideals that got Nicholson to the point of selling his soul. His ideals were just an excuse to feed a more driving impulse: legacy.

And that is where we need to watch ourselves. All too often the compromises we make with evil are not motivated by a greater good, but by the desire to be the saviors ourselves. Our worldview may claim to trust in a sovereign God who will bring justice to the whole of creation, but what does it say that we feel the need to compromise our ideals to gain the power to fix things ourselves?

1973-1998 

Miller’s Crossing (1990) Coen Brothers



The Coen’s mob film. Story wise it is one of their very best. The message is there too, but this is all about story.

Post-1998 

Moulin Rouge! (2001) Baz Luhrman



Luhrman’s films are mostly about concept and style; and this one is possibly his most conceptual and stylish. An idealist look at love that is very melodramatic, but with some uniquely fun musical takes.