An all-star cast (albeit choppy) including John Wayne, Richard Burton, Henry Fonda, Robert Mitchum, Robert Ryan and a youthful Sean Connery, re-tell the story of the D-Day invasion of Normandy.  There are dozens of characters and the plot is hefty.  Yet there is little bonding with the characters, as they appear briefly and seem to be there only to move the plot forward. 

Saving Private Ryan may have been powerful with the body parts flying in the air, but The Longest Day proves that one can keep to the exact details of historical events without losing interest or needing to show blood and flesh for further effect. 

The scene of the Allied invasion  on Normandy beaches (nicknamed by the directors “Z-Day”) has been plastered well in the minds of those who have watched war films but this one is nevertheless created with grandeur and skill.

The film opens with French towns overpowered by Germans, praying for salvation whilst the US, British, German and French prepare for what is now the greatest battle of the second World War. 

So many mishaps, mistakes and troubles cross the paths of all parties, as we see the plot evolve from separate invasion points (each with its own director).  There is great attention to detail and what seems like sappy patriotism and rather exaggerated representation of the different nationalities, this film is nevertheless a treat. 

D-Day serves as an important chapter in our history and this film depicts every last detail of the events.  Even as the young Connery (before he began to play Bond) comes out with “Come out, you dirty slobs!” on the battle field, you may laugh but the brevity of this film with its excellent attention to detail is definitely a must-have for the commemorative collection.
(4/5)

Release Date: 31 May 2004