Im Westen nichts Neues (TV Movie 1979)

Im Westen nichts Neues: Directed by Delbert Mann. With Richard Thomas, Ernest Borgnine, Donald Pleasence, Ian Holm. A young soldier faces profound disillusionment in the soul-destroying horror of World War I.

“This version may not be as good as its great predecessor, but itu0026#39;s definitely a fine show on its own. Richard Thomas is very good, if about ten years too old, as the central character, Paul Baumer, who grows from glory seeking school boy to crusty veteran to, finally disillusioned, weary, almost hopeless pawn. Ernest Borgnine is terrific as Kat, the cagey survivor, who takes the youngsters under his wing, teaching them ways to make trench warfare almost tolerable. Ian Holm has a nice turn as Paulu0026#39;s townu0026#39;s postman turned training NCO, who later is transferred to the trenches. The great actress, Patricia Neal, shines in a cameo as Paulu0026#39;s mother. Donald Pleasance is excellent as Paulu0026#39;s patriotic teacher who exhorts Paul and his classmates to enlist. Gradually the grinding attrition of war eliminates Paulu0026#39;s classmates and the old sweats, until the famous final scene, when so little happened that day that the war entry was u0026quot;All quiet on the Western Front.u0026quot; Most of the scenes in the original are presented here, a few additions and a couple deletions. The color cinematography is nicely done. Well worth a look as either a comparison or companion to the 1930 original.”