Memphis Belle: More Than Just a War Movie? My Theory!

Okay, so I finally got around to watching "Memphis Belle" (1990) the other night. I know, I know, I'm late to the party! I'd heard about it for years, and since the older kiddo is getting into World War II history at school, I thought it'd be a good one to watch with some parental guidance, of course. It's definitely intense, but I think it opens up some good conversations about courage and the cost of war, you know? But I've been thinking... is it just a war movie? Here's my theory and I just wanted to know if y'all felt the same way after watching: I think a big part of the movie isn't just about the bombing run itself, but about the pressure these young guys were under to live up to this heroic ideal. The whole 'one last mission' trope, the media attention, the pressure from the Colonel... it felt like they were performing a role as much as they were fighting a war. Like, what about the scene where Val (played by Tate Donovan) is just losing it before the mission? It really struck me. Was it just the fear of death? Or was it the fear of letting everyone down, of not being the hero they were supposed to be? Maybe I'm reading too much into it haha. But I feel like the film subtly highlights how society shapes our understanding of heroism and the incredible burden it can be. The movie spends so much time on the crew and not the 'enemy' that I think it's fair to say it's an anti-war movie. It's less about the grand strategy of war and more the personal one. And that's why it works, you know? I'd love to hear what you guys thought of it, especially parents who have watched it with their kids. Did any of this resonate with you, or am I totally off base? And any other age-appropriate war movie suggestions would be greatly appreciated!