The Standard

About This Movie

The Standard is a fascinating exploration of loyalty and survival set against the backdrop of the waning days of World War I. The atmosphere is heavy, filled with both the tension of battle and the complexities of human relationships, especially as Officer Menis clings to his duty amidst chaos. The pacing is a bit uneven, which somehow adds to the realism of their struggle; it feels like time itself is warping in the heat of conflict. The practical effects are decent for the era, and the performances have a rawness that often feels more genuine than polished. There's a distinct sense of melancholy that lingers long after viewing, making it a unique piece of war cinema.

The Standard is relatively scarce in the collector market, with some VHS and rare DVD releases surfacing occasionally. It hasn't been extensively remastered, which might account for its lower visibility but also adds to its charm in a way. Collectors seem particularly drawn to its unique blend of genres, and the unconventional narrative approach sets it apart from more mainstream war films of its time.