Terrific film that so succinctly sums up the passion and the innocence of the Aussie soldiers as they gave their lives up for a cause not their own, believing to the end that duty demanded that they make a good showing of themselves. This story is based in historical fact and is still discussed today as one of the most terrible follies foisted upon young men by totally incompetent military leaders. There are even worse stories that are told about the wars outcome in France and Belgium but this film captures enough of the tragedy to drive home the point of how mad all wars are.

The very young and handsome and Aussie sounding Mel Gibson is very convincing as are the entire cast. Peter Weir crafted a heart wrenching film which ends with a moment that you just can not shake from your mind. Great film and very moving.

I first watched this film back in the mid 1980's when it was shown on UK television and although being just a young boy had a certain knowledge of WWI and particularly the ill fated Gallipoli campaign. This film moved me to tears back then and in truth, still does now all these years later. The pacing is excellent, at no point does the film stay still. We feel a connection with the characters, an empathy, they practically become our friends through the telling of the story, and what a story it is. We see our two protagonists meet by chance and witness their friendship blossom before our eyes. The contrast in the pair is stark. Young Archy is full of adventure, desperate to do his part in the great war. Frank, the elder of the pair is far more cynical and far less keen to join what he refers to as an 'English war'. Soon enough, they both find their way to the Turkish peninsula and events quickly lead to a tragic end. This is a must for fans of war films and particularly those with an interest in WWI, and absolute masterpiece which has aged incredibly well ( as all great films do).

This is movie making at its finest. Splendidly acted and Directed, this is a magnificent movie. Mel Gibson is tremendous and no wonder why Gibson became a great Star, and later on a recognized talent for film making. I am a combat veteran of the great U S Army and the finale of this stunning film made me weep.