The Last Full Measure

In 1999 an up-and-coming political staffer at the Department of Defence, Scott Huffman, is given the job of investigating a request to upgrade an award to the Medal of Honour. After conspicuous acts of gallantry Airman William H Pitsenbarger was killed in Vietnam in 1966. He was recommended for the MoH but his award was downgraded to the Air Force Cross. For over 30 years his comrades and family have been lobbying for him to receive the medal. Huffman cares more about his own career than this case but the more he looks into it, the more convinced he is that Pitsenbarger deserves the MoH and should have received it in 1966. Why didn't he then?

Great drama, based on a true story. Captures well the reality of war: the sacrifice, the camaraderie, the trauma, the survival guilt and the long-term effects. Quite gritty in its depiction: no gung ho heroics and soldiers make mistakes. Also accurate in showing how politics and politicians are willing to abuse and neglect the sacrifice of soldiers in order to further their own careers.

Emotional too, as we realise that Pitsenbarger's sacrifice was not in vain, as we see the lives he saved and the lives they went on to lead. Incredibly emotional towards the end.

Doesn't start very compellingly though. Sebastian Stan is a bit underwhelming as Huffman and the movie takes a while to find its focus. When it does though it becomes an incredibly engaging and interesting drama.

Another reason for the high quality of the film is the cast. Sebastian Stan may be a bit lacking in screen presence but this is more than made up for by the supporting cast: William Hurt, Christopher Plummer, Dianne Ladd, Peter Fonda, Ed Harris, Samuel L Jackson, John Savage. All are superb and give the film the gravitas it needs. Even Samuel L Jackson eschews his usual in-your-face style for a more sensitive, introspective approach.

Great film about an incredible act of gallantry and selflessness.