Daniel Craig (Quantum of Solace), Leiv Schreiber (X-Men Origins: Wolverine), Jamie Bell (Jumper) and George Mackay star as brothers in this extraordinary story of Jewish partisans refusing to fall under Nazi rule. Directed by Edward Zwick, best known for films such as Glory and Legends of the Fall.
Defiance Overview
During World War II when Nazi’s were slaughtering Jews by the thousands in Eastern Europe, three brothers escape to the forest near their home. Later joined by the fourth brother, and with the knowledge that their parents have been murdered, the brothers decide to survive in the forest to avoid being killed by the Nazi’s.
The brothers have more to worry about then how to survive, when rumors of their daring escape and hideout spread, more fleeing Jews join them, prepared to risk their lives for freedom.
Defiance Review
In 1941 the Bielski brothers escape to the forest that was their childhood playground. While brothers Zus (Schreiber) and Tuvia (Craig) challenge each other for leadership and question each other's decisions, Tuvia becomes leader and continues to bring more Jews back with him, each time he is sent on a food mission.
Despite Zus' concern about how to feed these extra mouths, they manage to build up a community. The conflict between Tuvia and Zus doesn’t end there, with Zus’ craving for revenge and Tuvia wanting to focus on their survival and who he can save.
Mid-way through the film, after fighting with Tuvia, Zus and several others leave the otriad to join with a Russian army in a nearby part of the forest. Tuvia and the remaining members of the otriad must deal with a shortage of food, the ravages of illness and conflict in the community as winter sets in.
This is a gripping survival story, full of action, death, romance and even humor. The Bielski otriad (partisan detachment) manage to build a self-sustaining community by stealing or taking donations of food, weapons and other provisions, and for the most part, avoiding the Nazi's trying to find them.
A highly enjoyable film of hope, with excellent performances from main characters and support cast. While a rather long film, it is paced well and viewers wont have much time to get bored. Defiance is a fascinating and emotional journey.
- Defiance
- Starring Daniel Craig, Leiv Schreiber, Jamie Bell and George Mackay
- Written by Clayton Frohman and Edward Zwick (screenplay) and Peter Duffy (novel - The Bielski Brothers)
- Directed by Edward Zwick
- Running time 136 minutes
- Drama
- Rated M
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