Still one of the best

Both the Americans and British who fought in Korea call this The Forgotten War, and this is mirrored by the few films made about that conflict. Pork Chop Hill remains one of the best and is far from the simple 'shoot 'em up' kind of film. Based on a true story, it shows what happens to a company of GIs who are ordered to take the hill from Chinese troops, and hold it. The confusion, horror and claustrophobia of close quarter battle are brilliantly shown by director Lewis Milestone, without the aid of gallons of fake blood. The action on the hill is contrasted several times with the peace talks taking place only 70 miles away, showing that the military value of Pork Chop is nil, but its capture is seen by both sides as politically vital. A familiar theme, but seldom better done, and a fine performance by Gregory Peck as the company leader, Lt. Joe Clemons.