A lesser-known war film is currently the sixth most popular film on Netflix and the number one most popular of its genre on the platform at this time. Unbroken is a war drama film produced and directed by Angelina Jolie.
It was written by the Coen brothers, Richard LaGravenese and William Nicholson and released in 2014. Unbroken is based on the non-fiction book Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption (2010), written by Laura Hillenbrand. It stars Jack O’Connell in the lead role as Army officer Louis “Louie” Zamperini, an American Olympian, and Miyavi as Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) corporal Mutsuhiro Watanabe.
The film tells the story of Zamperini’s survival after he spent 47 days in a raft after his bomber ditched during the Second World War, before being captured and taken to a string of prisoner of war camps.
The film’s synopsis reads: “As a boy, Louis ‘Louie’ Zamperini is always in trouble, but with the help of his older brother, he turns his life around and channels his energy into running, later qualifying for the 1936 Olympics. When World War II breaks out, Louie enlists in the military. After his plane crashes in the Pacific, he survives an incredible 47 days adrift in a raft, until his capture by the Japanese navy. Sent to a POW camp, Louie becomes the favourite target of a particularly cruel prison commander.”
The film has caught the eye of viewers at home, which is reflected in Rotten Tomatoes rating of a solid 70% – one reviewer billed it a “masterpiece”.
One reviewer said: “This movie was spectacular! It is one of the most heartwrenching and inspiring war movies I have ever seen, and the acting and story were incredible. I definitely recommend it for history and war movie fans!”
“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 are absolutely phenomenal,” another said.
A third added: “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.”
Unbroken is available to watch on Netflix right now.