The Bridge On The River Kwai - movie review

I recently watched this classic 1957 movie for the first time in a couple of years. It probably now ranks second in my list of favourite films, behind Chinatown.

Although it is set during World War Two, I do not really regard The Bridge On The River Kwai as a war film. Rather, it is a film which examines and explores aspects of human nature and character, and which just happens to be placed against the backdrop of the strains of war.

The movie contains some rounded characters, such as Colonel Nicholson, played by Alec Guinness, the camp commander Colonel Saito, and the cynical American sailor Shears, memorably portrayed by William Holden. However, the medical officer Major Clipton (James Donald) is the one who appears to retain a clear head, and is able to observe the egotism and intransigence of all concerned.

The opening portions of the film centre on the battle of wills between Nicholson and Saito. In the face of repressive measures, the British officer remains obdurate, his first priority being the welfare and morale of his men.

In the face of British defiance, and confronted with the necessity to get the bridge built, the Japanese become more flexible and pragmatic, and even offer concessions.

The story really hinges on the decision of Nicholson to commit himself and his men to completing the construction of the bridge. At this point he becomes very headstrong, overruling any misgivings expressed by his subordinates. All that matters to him is to achieve his objective, and he seems oblivious to the possible ramifications, and the fact that this course of action may assist the enemy. Indeed, during the iconic final scenes Nicholson and Saito come across as allies or colleagues, rather than implacable foes.

It is also noticeable how the British men, impressed by their commander's resilience, offer their own almost slavish obedience when he announces the plan to press on with the building of the bridge. They are blinded by loyalty and emotion, and fail to appreciate how the plan could become counter-productive.

It is only when the commando team, including Shears, returns, that Nicholson realises his folly. But did he mean to fall on the detonator, as shown in the final scene?  Was he acknowledging his mistakes, or was it simply poetic irony?

What, if anything, does The Bridge On The River Kwai teach us?  It is certainly an examination of "ends" and "means". It may be seeking to warn us of the perils of blind obedience, and the dangers of failing to question authority.  Also, it tells us that in extreme conditions, such as war, people are forced to make difficult choices, and that in doing what they think is "the right thing", not of all the consequences will be pleasant or neutral. Also, in extreme situations, many people become blind to the consequences of their actions, full stop.

The medical officer, Clipton, neatly summarises things in the final piece of dialogue, after the bridge has been blown up - "Madness, madness!"