Film fans have raved about his film since its release in 2014, and many were shocked to learn that it was directed by none other than Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie.
Unbroken is an Oscar-nominated film that depicts the real-life story of a World War II hero. With Jack O’Connell starring in his big breakout role, directed by the A-lister, it’s no surprise that viewers are ‘highly recommending’ this movie.
A Rotten Tomatoes review states: “This film is as accurate and immersive as a historical film can get. Angelina Jolie did a fantastic job both casting and directing this film. Everything from the acting to the sets is absolutely phenomenal!”
The film follows the defiant story of Louis Zamperini, an American Olympic runner who was later commissioned in the United States Army Air Forces as a lieutenant. Based on real-life events, viewers watch as his plane crashes into the ocean, leaving him and his two crewmates stranded on a life raft for a long and painful 47 days.
After a treacherous journey, Zamperini finds himself on the Japanese Marshall Islands, where he was then captured as a prisoner of war. During his time there, the Olympian was forced to endure physical labour and take beatings in a camp where he worked until the very end of the war for around two whole years.
One person wrote: “Unbroken is a captivating film that masterfully depicts the physical torture endured by its characters while also delving into the psychological toll of their experiences. The acting is exceptional, and the movie strikes a powerful balance between brutality and resilience.”
Louis Zamperini himself was a part of the making of the film before his death in 2014 at 97 years old, just months before the film’s release. The following year, Unbroken went on to receive three Academy Award nominations for its cinematography, sound editing and sound mixing.
“It’s an intriguing take on a war story, and one I find myself returning to again and again. A solid film that I’d highly recommend to anyone who appreciates war dramas with depth,” an impressed viewer claimed.
With a big name like Angelina Jolie attached to it, there was a lot of pressure for the film to do well, as the actress had only made her directorial debut a few years prior. “I would’ve never guessed that Angelina Jolie did directing work either!” A review states, adding that “She did a terrific job!”
The real star of Unbroken, however, is Jack O’Connell, who stars as Louis Zamperini in what viewers have called a “powerful performance”. His work in the film landed him the ‘New Hollywood Award’ at the Hollywood Film Awards and cemented his career as a leading actor.
A moved viewer commented: “What a powerful true story of perseverance in the face of seemingly impossible obstacles and abuse. Seeing this reminded me how good I have it in my life and how I have no room to complain about anything.”
Unbroken is available to rent on both Amazon Prime and Apple TV now.