December

December is a riveting drama that takes audiences back to the stirring events of World War II. Released in 1991, this film is directed by Gabe Torres and is brought to life by a small but star-studded ensemble cast, including Balthazar Getty, Jason London, and Brian Krause.

The film is set in December 1941, undoubtedly one of the most tumultuous times in world history. As the world is thrown headlong into the second World War following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States finds itself unable to stand on the sidelines any longer. Dramatizing this historical backdrop, the film focusses on a group of students from a New England prep school.

The movie revolves around three main characters - Stuart (played by Jason London), Kipp (played by Brian Krause), and Russell (played by Balthazar Getty). All three are seniors at a prestigious prep school, each aiming to find their place in the world. While they all come from comparable backgrounds, their reactions to the catastrophic world events unfolding around them expose the stark differences in their characters, attitudes, and worldviews.

Stuart is the jaded cynic, disenchanted with the world around him and carrying a deep-seated mistrust of authority. Kipp, a reserve officer training cadet, yearns for a chance to serve his country in the war and is hopeful about its outcomes. Russell, also known as the 'Book Worm', is the trio's intellectual who finds himself caught somewhat indecisively between the contrasting perspectives of his two friends.

The film boasts an impressively constructed timeline that is synchronized splendidly with the real-life events of that era. The boys' lives go on under the shadow of entry into war, their stress heightened by the arrival of their draft cards. They scramble to face a reality that demands they choose between military combat, jail, or fleeing to Canada. The dilemma induces fears, passions, brotherhood, moral quandaries, and tensions among the trio.

Their gut-wrenching plight is mirrored by their parallel academic debate with Mr. Mitchell (played by Wilford Brimley), a battlefield veteran from World War I who is the school’s English teacher. Mr. Mitchell uses his own experiences to challenge and inspire the boys in heartrending discussions on the nature of war, patriotism, courage, and conscience.

December does not merely seek to entertain but to evoke thought. It is less action-packed, favouring deeply conversational scenes that tease out the characters' personal struggles and philosophies. The dialogue feels genuine and closely associated with real-world circumstances, giving audiences a glimpse into the benumbed confusion, fear, and anger experienced by the characters.

The film utilizes top-notch cinematography that excellently captures the characters' emotional struggles against the backdrop of World War II. The at-times stark and foreboding New England winter exacerbates the dark climate of their situation.

Balthazar Getty, Jason London, and Brian Krause put forth stellar performances, capturing the complexity and emotional depth of their characters with uniquely persuasive authenticity. Wilford Brimley's portrayal of the wise yet haunted Mr. Mitchell is likewise remarkable, providing a sobering reminder of the realities of war that adds to the overall gravity of the film.

December dams a wealth of notions and emotions into a runtime of about 95 minutes. It is a gripping spiritual journey into the heart of innocence, friendship, and looming adulthood tested against the dread and bewilderment of war. It navigates the dichotomy between idealism and harsh reality and questions the nature of courage in times of national crisis.

The film ends on a profound note, leaving viewers to grapple with their own feelings about the themes explored. December reminds us of the brutality of war and the harsh choices it brings. Yet, it also underlines the indomitable strength of the human spirit and the bonds of friendship, even amidst the darkest of times.

In sum, December is a remarkable film from the early '90s that may have faded from popular recollection but is no less relevant today. Whether viewers are history buffs, fans of dramatic cinema, or just appreciators of poignant storytelling, this movie will surely hit a chord. It's a must-watch for its engaging performances, compelling narrative, and historical insights.