Watch In Love and War

In Love and War is a moving drama film released in 1987, directed by Paul Aaron and based on a true story. The movie stars James Woods as renowned writer and journalist Ernest Hemingway, Jane Alexander as his loving and devoted companion Mary Welsh Hemingway, and Concetta Tomei as his first wife and the mother of his children, Hadley Richardson.

The film takes place during the later years of Hemingway's tumultuous life, primarily focusing on his time serving as a war correspondent during World War II. While stationed in London, Hemingway meets Mary and the two become inseparable, quickly falling deeply in love despite the war raging around them. With Mary by his side, Hemingway continues to write and report on the front lines, even after being injured while covering the Spanish Civil War.

Throughout the film, Hemingway struggles with his own inner demons, including his alcoholism and PTSD from his time in war zones. The strain of these issues puts a strain on his relationships, both with Mary and with Hadley, who he occasionally reconnects with throughout the film. Despite these challenges, however, Hemingway's passion for writing never wavers, and he continues to work tirelessly to document the horrors of war and the human stories that emerge even in the darkest circumstances.

Alexander is particularly powerful in her portrayal of Mary, Hemingway's rock through thick and thin. Their chemistry is palpable on screen, with subtle moments of affection and deep connection that make it clear that theirs is a love for the ages. Tomei is also excellent as Hadley, Hemingway's first wife whose own trauma from their separation never fully fades. In their scenes together, Woods and Tomei manage to capture the deep resonance of a relationship that was doomed but still holds deep meaning for both parties.

In Love and War is a poignant portrayal of a complex and fascinating artist whose talent and charisma remain iconic to this day. While it grapples with dark themes like addiction, war, and the destruction of relationships, it does so with a grace and sensitivity that never feels exploitative or melodramatic. Instead, it is a slow burn meditation on the complex ways in which the loves of our lives can shape and support us, even in our darkest moments.

The cinematography throughout the film is stunning, with a rich and moody quality that captures the bleakness of war-torn Europe as well as the lush beauty of more peaceful times. The score is similarly effective, with a mix of moody jazz and classical music that sets the perfect tone for each scene. As a result, the film feels immersive and fully-realized, transporting viewers back in time to the early days of Hemingway's career and the tumultuous years that followed.

Overall, In Love and War is a deeply affecting film that honors the complexity of Hemingway's life and legacy while also exploring themes that remain deeply relevant today. Its performances are top-notch, and its direction and production design stand up well over time. Whether you are a fan of Hemingway's work or simply interested in exploring the complexities of love, loss, and war, this film is a must-see.

In Love and War is a 1987 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.