A Time Out of War
Narrative Synopsis
Black and White UCLA Student Film, Preserved by the Academy Film Archive. During the American Civil War, two Union soldiers and a Confederate solider fire at each other from across a brook. The two sides negotiate a one-hour truce, from which they develop a bond. Based on the short story "Pickets" (1897) by Robert W. Chambers, it was the winner of an Academy Award for Best Short Subject (Two Reel) film in 1955. The film is on the National Film Registry for its cultural significance in 2007.
Streaming Availability & Discovery
Platform catalog indices and licensed providers for A Time Out of War.
Narrative DNA Intelligence
Slow-Burn Atmospheric
7 / 10
Emotionally Piercing
Emotionally Grounded
Calculated narrative telemetry highlights notable thematic precision within War. With an established critical baseline of 6.5/10, the plot emphasizes slow-burn atmospheric pacing paired with an ending characterized by emotionally piercing.
Low
Engagement barrierStandard Rhythmic Build
Story velocityHigh (Layered Nuances)
Hidden layers"Maintain active attention during the pivotal turning points. The narrative progression hinges on subtle thematic cues established in the first two acts before converging in the climax."
Spoiler Vault: Ending Decryption
Classified Climax & Ambiguity Breakdown
Contains complete plot revelations, climax analysis, and hidden clues for A Time Out of War. Proceed only if you have watched the finale.
