Miracle at St. Anna DVD Review

Miracle at St. Anna, from Touchstone Pictures on DVD February 10th, chronicles the story of four African-American soldiers, of the famed Buffalo Soldiers unit, trapped behind enemy lines in Italy during World War II. This Spike Lee joint chronicles the harsh realities of WWII and the mixed emotions and special challenges realized by the US Army’s all-black regiment.

Stationed in Tuscany, Italy, the four members of the 92nd Infantry Division (Buffalo Soldiers), are stuck in a village and surrounded by German soldiers. One of the soldiers finds a lost and traumatized Italian boy and refuses to leave him alone. As the story unfolds, we are given insight into the emotions of the soldiers, the injustices of war, and the brutality of battle. Miracle at St. Anna is based on the much acclaimed novel by James McBride.

The cast of the film is excellent. Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher, Lions for Lambs) is the leader of the unit and brings a strong charisma to the unit. Michael Ealy (Barbershop 2), Laz Alonso (Stomp the Yard) and Omar Benson Miller (8 Mile) highlight the other members of the 92nd. Additional stars include John Turturro (You Don’t Mess with the Zohan), Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Brick, The Lookout), John Leguizamo (Righteous Kill, The Happening), Kerry Washington (Ray), and D.B. Sweeney (Stiletto).

Although the talent is brilliant and the characters are compelling, there seems to be some major gaps in this 2 hour and 40 minute action/drama movie. There are some intense battle sequences and some strong moments, but there was simply not a lot of substance for such a lengthy movie from an accomplished director (Lee). Simply put, Miracle at St. Anna just did not have enough ammunition to make good on its potential. Still, the story does provide an education perspective on the life of an African-American soldier fighting during times of intense racism, and in a foreign country.

Starring: Derek Luke, Michael Ealy, Laz Alonso, Omar Benson Miller, John Turturro, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, John Leguizamo, Kerry Washington, D.B. Sweeney
Director: Spike Lee

Reviewed by Neil

Tags: Miracle at St. Anna DVD