They'd never do York ...

And for the precise reasons we like it. Think about it. Not only does it see a pacifist reconcile the need to take life, but it glorifies (that may be a bit strong, lets say puts a good face on) Christianity. The reason York wont fight initially is because it's "agen" (read: against) the Bible. He finally decides with the aide of a senior officer that for him to use his talents to stop the German machine guns (by taking life) he is preventing even more deaths, thus remaining in the Good Book's good graces. Can you see Hollywood pulling that story off without suggesting York is sent to the front line because he's a closet homosexual? Who was too afraid to admit his preferences to his Bible thumping family? I'd just assume they leave that movie alone rather then take their PC, morally relative Edward scissor hands to it.

My second inclination was some of the Duke Wayne films (a favorite of mine, I grew up watching these with my Dad, a huge fan). The only problem with redoing one of his films is not having John Wayne. I mean, who do you get to play his character - Wayne essentially played himself in one form or another. That being said I'm a fan of Flying Leathernecks, In Harm's Way (there you have to replace Wayne and Kirk Douglas), and Back to Battan (Wayne & Anthony Quinn). Hollywood should like remaking that last one, they can glorify (and properly so) the Philippine resistance, I'd trust them with that.

Another thought I had is Clooney and his lot love to put 12 or 15 big stars in one film (they fancy themselves a modern day rat pack - yawn). I could see a Longest Day in there, like a tribute film that could be well done with the right stars ... maybe.

Midway isn't necessarily a "classic", being it was done in the 70's, and I'm not sure Hollywood has the stomach to vilify any minority, even those responsible for Pearl.

The obvious one to me, which has become a classic despite its' later release is Patton. Finding the right actor(s) to remake it would be the key. I think a hard line, guts and glory film done in this day and age would sell like wildfire. You have to get the right guy though, and one not just doing a George C. Scott imitation (although that wouldn't be the worst thing I suppose). Giving that speech in front of the flag, his various gruff sayings such as: "The point of war is not dying for your country. It's making the other poor bastard die for his." These are real quotes. Imagine them tucked in just right among a B.o.B gritty, realistic film style, perhaps quietly said and to less people, etc. The politics of post war as well, and his tragic ending. I think you have a new instant classic if it's done right.

The sad truth is despite our being at war for 9 years the film industry has yet to make a proper pro military film (or HBO series) of any kind about the current conflict. The last was Black Hawk Down. And to this day I still think the heroism which took over the movie happened almost by accident (in terms of film making). It was meant to be an anti war film (questioning Clinton's decisions & US war making policy in total); but the writing within the book combines with the talent of the actors, simply taking over the film, and it becomes a proper illustration of the heart and bravery of the men in action. So, sadly, we are left with the current crop of Hollywood moguls whom see US Forces as the obvious "good guys" only up to WWII. Anything post WWII is too "controversial" and our leaders motives "questionable." It is amazing to see an entire industry work counter to its own bottom line. A modern day pro US forces film would make a bundle, yet they churn out drivel that bombs (at the box office). They should be ashamed of themselves. Yet another feather in the cap of the baby boomers, whom run Hollywood at present.

Anyway, my 2 cents ...