The Parachute (1968)

The Parachute Poster

As the Nazis grow ever more powerful in Germany, Werner grows up in an aristocratic household, hating his domineering father and making enemies in high places.

Film Overview
"The Parachute" is a 1968 drama film directed by John Muscarita. Set amidst a backdrop of war, tension, and suspense, the narrative unfolds mainly from the point of view of its lead character, John Farragut, a brave paratrooper. The film explores styles of patriotism, courage, and the profoundly individual experience of war.

Plot Summary
The lead characters, John and his youth buddy Bob, both serve in the army throughout World War II. When their unit is bought to parachute into opponent territory, they deal with a stark truth of war, putting to evaluate their abilities, devotion, and morality. This mission catches the essence of the movie-- an obstacle against overwhelming odds, showcasing the bond and sociability amongst soldiers, and the internal struggle they face, facing their mortality.

John's character is portrayed as a reflective and delicate person, facing the uncertainty of war. He is torn between responsibility and survival, loyalty and self-preservation, and these internal disputes are engraved in cinematic information throughout the movie.

Character Development
In the course of the plot, John progresses in his understanding of war, and his perspective shifts dramatically. At first, he sees the war with naivety and optimistic eagerness. However as he witnesses the destruction and human expense of the war, his point of view allows him to understand the intricacy and tragedy of wartime situations.

Bob's character, on the other hand, serves as a continuous, changeless symbol of patriotic devotion. His undeviating commitment towards satisfaction of duty contrasts John's emotional journey, more highlighting the individual struggles each soldier deals with throughout the war.

Secret Scenes
A critical scene in the film is the actual parachute dive. Framed with heart-stopping thriller, it's a sequence that exhibits the film's name. The audience enjoys the sorties high above enemy lines, as the paratroopers leap into the unidentified below. The depiction of the drop is filled with spectacular visuals and the extreme atmosphere records the heightened anticipation of risk, signifying the characters' existential leap into deep space.

The movie's climax is dealt with extreme feeling as Bob sacrifices himself to safeguard the team while John, despite his best shots, is unable to save his friend. This alters John's outlook, strengthening his disillusionment with the ideals he when thought in.

Cinematic Style and Techniques
"The Parachute" boasts a brilliant cinematography with its great mix of drama, thriller, and war action series. The sound design and rating heighten the environment of war and enhance the psychological undercurrents of the story. The director, John Muscarita, utilizes a variety of stylistic techniques including flashbacks, close-ups, and realistic combat scenes that include depth to the narrative.

Concluding Remarks
"The Parachute" is a poignant exploration of the human side of war, focused on the nuanced representation of soldiers' experiences. Through its immersive narrative and character development, it challenges the audience to question the price of war and the real meaning of guts. Over 5 decades considering that its release, the movie's raw representation of war and humankind continues to resonate and invites reflection on the complicated concerns it takes on.

Top Cast

  • John Osborne (small)
    John Osborne
    Werner Roger
  • Alan Badel (small)
    Alan Badel
    Father
  • Jill Bennett (small)
    Jill Bennett
    Anna
  • Isabel Dean (small)
    Isabel Dean
    Mother
  • Esmond Knight (small)
    Esmond Knight
    Helmut
  • Drewe Henley (small)
    Drewe Henley
    Klaus
  • Barry Jackson (small)
    Barry Jackson
    Koepfer