I'm a big history buff, particularly when it comes to military history. I've read so many books on the subject that I like to consider myself to be fairly knowledgeable. As such, I like to see war films. Now I enjoy those macho shoot-em-ups as much as the next guy but I particularly enjoy war films that are based on fact and are shown as such. This was the reason why I liked Saving Private Ryan and why I really liked A Bridge Too Far. Based on the disasterous Operation Market-Garden, the film tells of the attempt by the Allies to end the second World War by Christmas 1944. Unfortunately the operation was not successful.
The story is shown from the perspective of the major parties involved. This includes the American 82nd Airborne, the 101st Airborne, the British 1st Airborne, the Polish Airborne, British XXX Corps, the Dutch citizens and of course, the German Army. With such a large cast of characters, it becomes easy to understand why this epic movie is close to three hours long. But the film is engaging and interesting and contrary to what many war films of the time portrayed, very honest. The successes and failures by both sides are shown and it creates a story unusually compelling for both those interested in history and those who aren't.
Now how about that music? I enjoyed it immensely. Addison's score is very much patriotic with a variety of themes for the Allied heroes. The American Airborne has their own theme that is heard in March of the Paratroopers and Bailey Bridge, two tracks that I always listen to at full volume.
The main theme, introduced in Overture is a roushing and hopeful theme meant to convey the hope that the Allies had of succeeding in their mission. The main theme also conveys the hope of the mission in tracks such as in Before the Holocaust which starts the main theme off softly and optimistically before bringing it in with the full orchestra as the entire force is lifted off for the rendevous with history. At times of despair, the theme is often reprised and brought back full force when the Allies succeed. This is most effectively done in Nijmegen Bridge. Addison builds the tension to a peak at which time he relieves us of our tension by triumphantly reprising the main theme.
While the music is enjoyable on its own, I think that a familiarity with the film will enhance the experience. When listening only to the music I could still envision the scenes in my mind and I enjoyed the music even more for it. Still, I think this is a score worth at least listening to. If you enjoy war film scores, you should definitely pick this one up. The main theme is a classic war film march often heard on war film score compilations. So go on, give it a whirl.
Total time:
1. Overture
2. A Dutch Rhapsody
3. Before The Holocaust
4. Underground Resistance
5. Air Lift
6. Hospital Tent
7. Arnhem
8. Nijmegen Bridge
9. March Of The Paratroopers
10. Bailey Bridge
11. Human Roadblock
12. Futile Mission
13. The Waal River
14. Arnhem Destroyed
15. Retreat
16. A Bridge Too Far March