Sorry. I'm sure it's been answered many times before.
What specifically is going on with Capt. Miller's hands?? What does it indicate??
shareYeah, it's been discussed here many times before. But, don't worry about it. As the movie becomes discovered by more and more viewers, these same questions will come up over, and over. It's natural.
There are of course explanations, and theories put forth here from time to time that range from the sublime to the ridiculous. But, the general consensus seems to be that Miller was suffering from some form of progressive neurological condition, probably brought on, and/or aggravated by, the stress of combat.
It's an interesting feature of Hanks' characterization of Miller. It adds an interesting depth to the character. I don't know if it was the writer's doing, or part of Hanks' interpretation of the role. But, that would be an interesting question to have answered.
TNSTAAFL
It's an interesting feature of Hanks' characterization of Miller. It adds an interesting depth to the character. I don't know if it was the writer's doing, or part of Hanks' interpretation of the role. But, that would be an interesting question to have answered.
It was subtly done. Hanks is a great actor.
Regarding this type of stress. It seems to manifest in many ways.
When I was a young kid (10), there was a WW2 vet who used to cycle around the village we lived in. He was terrified of loud noises. We discovered this when we were popping balloons as he was passing. To my eternal shame we thought this was funny.
Then there was my mother's great grandfather who suffered some kind of PTS after fighting in the Boer War. Mother said he would walk in a straight line down the street without turning unless he was tugged to the side to prompt him.
The decision to use artillery usually used on fortifications on soldiers was the beginning of a horrible stress toll on combatants. The Boer War and the American Civil War brought about this change in tactics with heavy artillery. Being shot at or seeing the abhorrent effects of war is one thing but to be bombarded with huge shells many of which airburst with shrapnel must be absolutely terrifying.
There are of course explanations, and theories put forth here from time to time that range from the sublime to the ridiculous. But, the general consensus seems to be that Miller was suffering from some form of progressive neurological condition, probably brought on, and/or aggravated by, the stress of combat.
The Americans landing at Normandy and then moving onto inland objectives had a baptism of fire. They were fighting battle hardened German soldiers. Of course the Americans soon adjusted but the initial stress must have been extreme.
Good analysis Bill. Combat can no doubt bring about or aggravate underlying conditions. share