From our study of World War II, we have three movies to recommend:

"Saints and Soldiers" is based upon the actual events of the Malmedy Massacre, five Allied soldiers are trapped behind enemy lines and are desperately trying to get intelligence information delivered. Beautiful cinematography--especially when you learn that this was an independent film (made with 1/140th of a regular budget by using World War II re-enactors who volunteered to be extras and equipment/props from private military collections). Winger and Polar Bear disagreed when guessing who are the "saints" and who are the "soldiers" in this movie. War is ugly in its realities, and there are "good guys" on both sides. Especially compelling is the character nicknamed "Deacon" for his Bible reading and hope of heaven. If the true measure of love is "to lay down one's life for one's friends," than this movie is authentically Catholic.

"In Love and War" (Hallmark version) is more of a love story with the War as a backdrop. Meggar loved it, while Dorito didn't even want to watch it to the end. Some romance, some comedy as an injured British soldier has trouble after his escape from a POW camp because of a foot injury. With the help of the local villagers, he hides from the Nazis, learns some Italian, and falls in love.

"The Miracle at Moreaux" The nuns running a French boarding school are trying to protect the children from the politics and racism of the War. Superb story line as the children must own up to their own stereotypes when confronted with Jewish children under the threat of Nazi genocide. Endearing and witty Christmas scene at the end. A nice story for families with young children who want to get a glimpse of soldiers and Holocaust sufferers.