This is a very nice, forgettable movie. It has class, it has great actors, it’s well-produced, it’s based on a true story, it’s a slice of war life, it’s interesting, and I swear that two days later you’ll forget you ever saw the movie. You’ll only remember when you see the title. “‘The Railway Man?’ Oh, yeah! I remember that movie!” And it’s only been three days since you saw it. It’s not a bad movie, not by any means; it’s a good movie, but just not transcendent or impactful beyond the moment you’re watching it.  A World War II veteran confronts his tormentor decades after being imprisoned and tortured in a Japanese POW camp. Heartfelt and meaningful, this is like a good sermon—I’d probably remember it more easily if I were a better person. Want to watch a quality act, pick this one; it’s just that you might not recall it later. (OK, so maybe you’re a better person than me, and this movie will have a huge impact that will change the rest of your life. Right.)

2021 Update: It’s not that forgettable. I still remember it, which is more than what I can say for a number of other movies on this site. (Ex. “Minions” – What was that about? Errr, minions?)

Not For Kids