True, this version of James Jones' classic novel attempts to follow the writer's concept, moreso than the 1953 theatrical version, and it is able to do so since the Hayes Code has lost most of it's grip, BUT...
The acting here seems so uninspired and lackluster, that it becomes a chore to grind out the five hours of this TV opus. Devane does well in the first half of this, but around the middle he spirals down to a gum chewing clod and more closely resembles SGT Snorkle of Beetle Bailey fame than rough, tough SGT Ward. Railsback, who shined so brightly as Chuck Manson in "Helter Skelter" (1976), still appears to be trying to portray the Mass Slayer rather than a thirty-year man with the troubles of the world on his back. Wood and Pantaliano turn in the best performances, yet what remains just is not worth staying up late to watch-catch the Lancaster/Clift version even if you've seen it a hundred times...it is far superior.
The acting here seems so uninspired and lackluster, that it becomes a chore to grind out the five hours of this TV opus. Devane does well in the first half of this, but around the middle he spirals down to a gum chewing clod and more closely resembles SGT Snorkle of Beetle Bailey fame than rough, tough SGT Ward. Railsback, who shined so brightly as Chuck Manson in "Helter Skelter" (1976), still appears to be trying to portray the Mass Slayer rather than a thirty-year man with the troubles of the world on his back. Wood and Pantaliano turn in the best performances, yet what remains just is not worth staying up late to watch-catch the Lancaster/Clift version even if you've seen it a hundred times...it is far superior.