Review: MASH (1970)

When it comes to anti-establishment films of the late 1960s and early 1970s, few have as lasting an impact as Robert Altman's MASH from 1970. This film is a dark comedy set against the backdrop of the Korean War, and its irreverent take on both military life and the absurdities of war itself still resonates today. It's a film that manages to walk the line between humor and serious commentary with a deft touch, making it a standout in any collection.

Plot Summary

MASH focuses on the antics of a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War. The film follows the lives of three Army surgeons: Hawkeye Pierce, Trapper John McIntyre, and Duke Forrest. These characters challenge authority and military protocol with their unorthodox methods and irreverent humor. Despite the serious nature of their work, they use wit and pranks to cope with the harsh realities they face daily. The film's plot is more a series of vignettes than a traditional narrative, offering snapshots of the doctors' lives, their interactions, and the chaos around them, all without giving away any spoilers that might ruin the experience for first-time viewers.

Performances

The performances in MASH are nothing short of stellar. Donald Sutherland's portrayal of Hawkeye Pierce brings a perfect mix of cynicism and charm, making him an unforgettable character. Elliott Gould as Trapper John is equally engaging, matching Sutherland's wit beat for beat. The chemistry between Sutherland and Gould is palpable and forms the backbone of the film's success. Supporting performances by Tom Skerritt as Duke Forrest and Sally Kellerman as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan add depth and complexity, ensuring that even the secondary characters leave a lasting impression. Each actor brings a unique flavor to their role, contributing to the film's rich ensemble cast.

Direction and Craft

Robert Altman's direction is a key component of MASH's success. Known for his ability to handle ensemble casts and overlapping dialogue, Altman creates a world that feels chaotic yet controlled. The film's naturalistic style, with its use of improvisation and handheld camera work, adds to the authenticity and immediacy of the story. Altman's approach allows the humor to emerge organically from the situations, rather than feeling forced or scripted.

The production design deserves a mention as well. The setting of the mobile army surgical hospital is convincingly realized, capturing the grit and disorder of a war zone. The use of muted colors and practical effects grounds the film in its era, while the soundtrack, featuring the now-iconic song "Suicide is Painless," adds an ironic touch to the proceedings.

Collector's Verdict

As a collector, MASH is an essential part of any serious film library. Its influence on both cinema and television is undeniable, having spawned a successful TV series that carried on its legacy. For those who love films that balance humor with social commentary, this is a must-have.

The best format to own MASH in is Blu-ray. The high-definition transfer does justice to Altman's gritty visuals and enhances the overall viewing experience. While the film is relatively common in terms of availability, the Blu-ray edition often includes valuable extras such as commentary tracks and behind-the-scenes documentaries that offer insight into the film's production and legacy. This makes it not only a worthwhile acquisition but also an educational one.

In terms of rarity, MASH is considered common, so obtaining a copy should be straightforward. However, its cultural significance and the quality of the Blu-ray release make it a standout in any collection.

Star Rating

I would rate MASH a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. The film's unique blend of humor and serious themes, combined with strong performances and Altman's masterful direction, make it a classic piece of cinema that continues to be relevant. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting, MASH is a film that deserves a spot on your shelf.