The Christian Broadcasting Network

Explore

Blog

Email Updates

Latest entertainment articles and reviews. Subscribe

Weekly CBN.com top stories and videos. Subscribe



The Monuments Men movie

Popcorn Rating

Movie Info

RATING:

PG-13 for some images of war violence and historical smoking

GENRE:

Action Drama

RELEASE:

February 7, 2014

STARRING:

George Clooney, Matt Damon, John Goodman, Hugh Bonneville, Bill Murray, Jean Dujardin, Bob Balaban, Cate Blanchett

DIRECTOR:

George Clooney

DISTRIBUTOR:

Sony Pictures

More on this movie at IMDb.com

More Christian movie reviews

Get the latest on Hollywood Insight: A Christian Movie Blog

Please Note:
In providing movie reviews on our site, CBN.com is not endorsing or recommending films we review. Our goal is to provide Christians with information about the latest movies, both the good and the bad, so that our readers may make an informed decision as to whether or not films are appropriate for them and their families.
CHRISTIAN MOVIE REVIEW

Review: The Monuments Men

By Hannah Goodwyn
Senior Producer


CBN.com - Based on a true story, The Monuments Men is a theatrical account of a dangerous mission to save priceless works of art from the devastation ripping through World War II Europe. It recounts the bravery of Allied volunteers, comprised of artists and museum curators, as they attempt to steal back treasures pilfered by the Nazis. Think The Train ('60s Burt Lancaster WWII movie) meets Ocean's Eleven.

Unfortunately, the passion George Clooney had to make this movie (he wrote, acted, produced and directed it) doesn't fully translate into a powerfully engaging film. Though The Monuments Men illuminates a fairly unknown and important part of modern history, it is not as moving as one might hope after watching its intriguing trailer.

THE MOVIE IN A MINUTE

The tide of the war in Europe is turning. As the Allies gain ground, air raids pummel Germany's defenses while also demolishing historical sites. With a commission from President Roosevelt, Frank Stokes (Clooney) gathers a group of unlikely "soldiers" to protect national treasures and return everything Hitler's army stole back to their owners, Jewish families and churches in the Nazi occupied territories. As Germany's defeat appears even more inevitable, Hitler orders his commanders to burn everything – all of the religious artifacts, paintings and sculptures collected – upon his death. In a race to recover the confiscated art before it's too late, Stokes and his band of brothers venture into some of the most dangerous battlegrounds of the war's end.

THE GOOD AND BAD IN THE MONUMENTS MEN

This account of one of history's greatest art heists falls short of becoming its own work of cinematic art. Potentially deep characters are glossed over as the storyline swiftly and sometimes disjointedly moves from one plot point to the next. This is especially true for the first act of the film.

The exceptional cast creates moments of real transparency, drama and needed levity. Alongside Clooney are perfectly casted Matt Damon, Bob Balaban, John Goodman and Bill Murray (who gives one of the best performances). Rounding out the cast is Cate Blanchett (Blue Jasmine), Jean Dujardin (The Artist) and Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey).

It's nice to see a film acknowledge the personal and universal significance of faith. In one instance, a character says a blessing of "God go with you". Art is creation. Therefore, we, as God's created, must preserve it. These brave men and women who sacrificed to protect our history understood that well and are rightfully honored in this film.

While the film's intended message is a noble one, it does contain content that may be questionable to faith audiences. The Monuments Men is rated PG-13 for some images of war violence and historical smoking. Caution is also advised due to the foul language used in the film, including instances of profanity.

IN THE END

The Monuments Men is entertaining and enlightening, but not a masterpiece.

For more reviews like this one, sign up to receive CBN.com's Entertainment email update.


Hannah GoodwynHannah Goodwyn serves as the Entertainment producer for CBN.com. For more articles and information, visit Hannah's bio page.

E-mail me!

Log in or create an account to post a comment.  

  • Translate
  • Print Page


CBN IS HERE FOR YOU!
Are you seeking answers in life? Are you hurting?
Are you facing a difficult situation?

A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.

Do You Know Jesus
Grow In Your Faith

Need Prayer?

Call 1-800-700-7000
Email your prayer request

Email iconSign up for E-mail Updates Full List

 E-mail: