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Editorial Review:
Amazon.com:
First broadcast on HBO in June of 1998--shortly before the theatrical release of Steven Spielberg's Saving Private Ryan--this World War II drama offers an equally intimate and devastating study of combat and its tragic aftermath. Set in Germany during the closing days of the war, the film uses a little-known episode of U.S. military history--the bloody battle of the Hurtigen Forest--as the backdrop for the story of a battle-weary private (Ron Eldard) who is the only surviving member of his platoon. Despite his request for dismissal on the grounds of mental disability and shell-shock, he is considered a promising soldier by his superiors, promoted to sergeant, and assigned to command a fresh platoon of young, inexperienced soldiers. The cycle of war continues, and the film ends as it began--with one soldier carrying a mortally wounded comrade from a scene of devastating loss. A veteran of several war films, director John Irvin emphasizes the gritty, physically exhausting realities of combat with keen attention to detail on location in Hungary. This film is decidedly downbeat (don't look for any Spielbergian uplift here), but its depiction of warfare is undeniably powerful, earning praise for Irvin and HBO for tackling such an uncompromising project. --Jeff Shannon
Customer Reviews
Average Rating: 
Rating:  - 3.5 stars out of 4
The Bottom Line:
A well-structured, well-acted and well-made made-for-TV war film, When Trumpets Fade will probably not be remembered as a great film, but when you're watching it you wouldn't be faulted for thinking it was.
Rating: - One of the Best
This is one of the best movies I have seen on the affect war has on those required to fight.
Rating: - well acted
When Trumpets fade is a well acted and well directed story that is sad in the loss of life that is now all but forgotten except for this film reminding us of the sacrifice. Up there with the best war films.
Rating: - When Trumpet Fade
Not your standard war hero movie. Lots to think about, if you let yourself. Plenty of action, touched by fear and second guessing. I loved it.
Rating: - Well Done
I am always very happy to see something created that is well done. In the same caliber as Saving Private Ryan, this movie takes you too the decisions made by a reluctant participant who eventually has to deal with his overall responsibility to himself, his country, and his men. Well done, Bravo
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