FSR: Actually, I would love to hear it.

JB: I went to Iceland where they shot the Iwo Jima scene, and I went into a shed that was holding the 1945 rifles the extras were using. When you think of the extras, they are just running with the rifles. They wouldn’t even use these rifles, but they would clean them. Cleaning and disassembling these rifles, going through this laborious process.

I asked “Why are you getting 1945 rifles to work perfectly, when they are going to be used by extras?” They told me that Mr. Eastwood wanted every extra to have the exact feeling. I’m just so proud that he brought those six boys back to life.

FSR: Another one of your novels, Flyboys, has been optioned by Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and HBO. What can you tell me about that?

JB: They are working on a ten part series called “The Pacific.” It is based on four books, and Flyboys is one of them.

FSR: Most of our readers are a bit on the younger side, mostly in their 20’s. Is there anything that you’d like to tell our readers either about the book or the film?

JB: It is a timeless movie. Everybody should see it; it’s for all ages. If you go to the movie and you don’t think I’m right about that, then send me a letter.

In talking with James, I was left with even more admiration for the film which I saw last month. His passion and knowledge of the subject have pushed me to read the novel. Furthermore, I am highly anticipating the HBO mini-series also inspired by his writing. Thank you James, and make sure you all go out and see the film.

Brian Gibson is the Associate Editor of Film School Rejects.