
History has always toiled with the lives of men women. As countries and politicians advance verbally across boardrooms and secrets, thousands (and sometimes millions) are cut down for the sake of 'progress'. In the end, is the waste of life really so important? Soldiers are admirable and strong men, who give their lives for a cause they believe in. Though you may hate the war and it’s gritty nature, it is important to support the troops that still sacrifice themselves in the line of duty. Today is D-Day, marking the anniversary of that bloody battle on the beaches of Normandy. Heralded as a movie that captures vehemence and often credited as one of the best War films of all time, we hit the play button on Saving Private Ryan.

This film will always be an astonishing achievement for Spielberg. His use of close ups, shaky-cam work and stunning pyrotechnics drag you into the intense battle. That opening scene on Omaha beach, from the lead up of the frightened soldiers to the explosions and gore - it is catastrophic and terrifying. Spielberg bravely immerses the audience into the violence. The way it is set up is emotive and that is scary. Spielberg doesn’t shy away from this. The violence is real, the emotions are real and it’s an absorbing pull into the terrors of war. Saving Private Ryan and it's visceral depth is unnerving, powerful and acclaimed.

How on earth did his masterpiece lose to Shakespeare in Love at the Oscars? How? Spielberg and his team are adamant here. The aim is to drag you into the world that soldiers suffered in World War II. He gives you enough characterisation to involve yourself in the story, and still throws an impactful film to go under your skin. Standing strong today, it is one to watch... and remember. Remember that these people were real. The story here may be fabricated, but siblings fought together, friends fought together and man battled man to bloody results and sorrow-filled ends.