Is Nothing to Report Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1973)

📖 The Core Premise

Nothing to Report stands as a 1973 entry that attempts to leave its mark on the War landscape. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "In 1956, the professional army of France lacks the manpower to keep the peace in Algeria, the colony which the country is determined to hold on to at any price. For this reason, reservists are called up and subject to an intense period of training before being sent to the front. Rémy March, Alain Charpentier and Raymond Dax are three such young men who have no interest in the military escapade and are reluctant conscripts. What they witness in Algeria will appall and transform them. Rape, torture, executions... there is no end to the atrocities in which they become unwilling participants. No wonder the French military are so willing to proclaim that there is nothing to report..."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Nothing to Report, Jacques Spiesser delivers a serviceable performance that keeps the narrative moving. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good War. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Nothing to Report worth your time? If you appreciate War films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Nothing to Report is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 110 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.