A Darkly Comic Take on WaHow I Won the War Starring John Lennon
Imagine a world where war is laced with absurdity, the stakes are comically low, and the bloodshed is as theatrical as it is surreal. This is the premise of How I Won the War, a 1967 film that some deem a masterpiece while others consider it entirely nonsensical. Starring John Lennon in a quirky role, the film is a black comedy war satire directed by Richard Lester, who previously thrilled audiences with Beatles classics like A Hard Day’s Night and Help!.
Set against the backdrop of North Africa during World War II, the story unfolds through the eyes of Lieutenant Goodbody, played by Michael Crawford. This jingoistic officer leads a motley crew of British soldiers as they embark on a misguided missionâ€â€to clear a heavily-mined area for a cricket pitch. Their absurd venture serves not just as an excuse for military camaraderie, but as a lens through which the pomposity of the officer class and the disregard for lower-ranking soldiers’ lives are sharply critiqued.
A Star-Studded But Brief Appearance
In this eccentric cinematic journey, Lennon captures attention as Musketeer Gripweed, a wise-cracking private engaging in a series of bizarre antics. Despite his top billing, he appears on screen for roughly ten minutes, showcasing the film’s offbeat nature by staging countless ludicrous scenes. It’s rumored that during filming in Almeria, Spain, he even began composing the iconic Beatles track Strawberry Fields Forever.
The film has received mixed reviews since its release. Critics from TimeOut commended Lester’s “inventive” style, highlighting how the film expertly blends surreal humor with biting satire. Conversely, some, like Bosley Crowther from The New York Times, lamented that it fell short in making a genuine anti-war statement. The juxtaposition of humor and serious themes has led to its divided legacy, reflected in its 60% Tomatometer score.
For those looking to explore this peculiar film, it remains available on DVD, even as streaming options in the UK have yet to catch up. While the film may not be for everyone, audiences continue to discuss its merits, as some hail it as “one of the most confusing, odd, crazy, and absolutely brilliant films ever made.” In a landscape where war narratives often tread a linear path, How I Won the War challenges conventions, inviting viewers into a world where satire reigns and absurdity is king.