The Film (4/5)

In our contemporary society, people having relationships with those of different races and cultures have become commonplace. Actually they have been taking place for many years but were far more taboo than they are now. The 1979 film Yanks has a heavy emphasis on romance with those of different cultural backgrounds. Taking place during World War II, the United States has set up several army bases in Great Britain as part of the war effort. Not showing much respect or class to the American troops, many of the British soldiers seem to dislike the Americans, calling them “Yanks”. Unfortunately since the American troops are acting obnoxious during their stay, it’s easy to see why. Enraging the British soldiers even more is the “Yanks” start courting the local women where the focus is on three American men and their relationships three British women. Sergeant Matt Dyson (Richard Gere) has a romantic love affair with Lisa Eichhorn (Jean Moreton) while Captain John (William Devane) and Sergeant Danny Ruffelo (Chick Vennera) get romantically and emotionally involved with Helen (Vanessa Redgrave) and Millie (Wendy Morgan) respectively. As in most romance themed films, each of the couples experience some hardships, including a powerful yet distressing moment between Dyson and Jean.

John Schlesinger has done a bloody good job directing Yanks as he helms a superbly done World War II romance and capturing the cultural differences between Americans and British outside of their language and accents. The acting is brilliant, the story is literate and the cast hands in superb performances. In addition to the main leads (Gere, Redgrave, etc), the supporting cast, including Rachel Roberts, Arlen Dean Snyder, Annie Ross also are excellent in their parts. The cinematography by Dick Bush is beautiful and the music by Richard Rodney Bennett is top notch.

Audio/Video 5/5

British label Eureka has given Yanks a Region 2 Blu-ray release, with the image quality more than pleasing. Colors are sharp with rich, bold and wonderful details to the outdoor scenery. Black levels are balanced. Grain is present throughout, and there is no signs of any DNR being applied.

There is only one audio track on this Blu-ray release, which is English LPCM 2.0. The audio comes in loud and clear without any flaws to the dialog, music and other noises during the film. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided.

Extras (1.25/5)

Supplements are minimal for this release. There is an interview recorded in a Q&A session in which John Schlesinger his love for films, a trailer and a booklet that featuring new writing on Yanks, alongside archival imagery.

Overall (4/5)

While Yanks is most likely not every fan’s cup of tea, for those who enjoy nostalgic war films that incorporate romance in them, the film is sure to please. Richard Gere fans should unquestionably add this to their movie collection. Eureka’s presentation of the film on home video is superb, making the viewing much more enjoyable.