Synopsis
The Great War follows two self-serving Italian soldiers, Oreste and Giovanni, who use every trick possible to avoid danger during World War One. The film masterfully balances sharp humor with genuine tragedy, exposing the absurdity and futility of war. Its bittersweet ending remains one of Italian cinema's most memorable and emotionally resonant conclusions.
Did You Know?
- Won the Golden Lion at the 1959 Venice Film Festival.
- Directed by Mario Monicelli, a master of Italian commedia all'italiana.
- Alberto Sordi and Vittorio Gassman starred as unlikely soldier duo.
- Film blends dark comedy with tragic World War One themes.
- Considered one of the greatest Italian films ever made.
Iconic Quotes
- We're not heroes, we're just trying to survive.
- War is for those who want it, not us.
- I'd rather be a live coward than a dead hero.
- They send us to die and call it glory.
- The only medal I want is the one that gets me home.
