Overview and Plot
Released in 2001, “Pearl Harbor” is a film that intertwines elements of war, romance, and historical events. The narrative revolves around two friends who fall for the same captivating nurse amidst the backdrop of the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The nurse is stationed at the American naval base in Hawaii, which the Japanese had targeted for a surprise assault. The lead roles are portrayed by Ben Affleck and Kate Beckinsale, with notable performances by Josh Hartnett and Alec Baldwin.
Trailer
Reception and Comparisons
The film was anticipated to replicate the success of “Titanic,” released a few years prior. However, “Pearl Harbor” did not receive the same acclaim. It was nominated for nine awards at the Golden Raspberry Awards, notorious for recognizing the year’s worst films and performances. Despite this, the film managed to gross approximately $450 million.
Soundtrack and Filming Locations
Country star Faith Hill performed the film’s theme song, “There You’ll Be,” which landed on top 10 lists both in America and overseas and received nominations at the Grammys, Golden Globes, and the Oscars. While Pearl Harbor is located in Hawaii, the film was not entirely shot there. Much of the film was filmed in Hawaii, but Rosarito Beach in the Mexican state of Baja California was also used as a set.
Behind the Scenes
Directed by Michael Bay, the film’s production cost exceeded the actual damage cost of the real Pearl Harbor. Interestingly, the actors, including Affleck, Hartnett, and Baldwin, flew the planes themselves for certain scenes after undergoing basic flight training. However, co-pilots handled the take-off and landing.
Versions and Run Time
The standard version of the film runs for three hours and three minutes. However, there is an extended version that is one minute and nine seconds longer, and a director’s cut that includes an additional 69 seconds, mostly comprising extra gore shots.
Awards and Accidents
Despite its mixed reception, “Pearl Harbor” won an Oscar, making it the only film to receive both an Oscar and a nomination for Worst Picture at the Golden Raspberry Awards. During the filming of “Pearl Harbor,” five accidents were reported, including a broken collarbone and finger, and several sprained and broken ankles. Despite the scale of the production, no major accidents occurred. The entire filming process took 109 days.
Historical Inaccuracies and Personal Connections
The film has been criticized for some historical inaccuracies, such as the inclusion of a packet of Marlboro Lights, which had not yet been invented at the time of the Pearl Harbor attack. Interestingly, Ben Affleck’s grandfather, a firsthand witness to the real-life tragedy, chose not to watch the film to avoid reliving the traumatic event.