The year is 1946. The war is over, and the soldiers are coming home. Director (and veteran) William Wyler uses this moment in history to make The Best Years of Our Lives, a remarkably contemporary and multi-faceted drama featuring three men from different branches of the military and socioeconomic standings adjusting to civilian life. Each struggles with his own reentry into the world he left behind.

What The Best Years of Our Lives offers casual movie fans who have always meant to watch classic movies: one of the first major movie roles for a disabled person; impressive use of deep focus; a movie that feels unique both in its subject matter and its proximity to the event; and a substantial amount of drinking and smoking.

Show Notes