Defiance
Plot
Defiance is a 2008 American war drama film directed by Edward Zwick. Set during World War II, the movie tells the true story of the Bielski partisans, a group of four Jewish brothers who escape their Nazi-occupied homeland in West Belarus (now Poland) and join the Soviet partisans to fight against the German occupation. The film focuses on the Bielski family, comprising Tuvia (Daniel Craig), Asael (Jamie Bell), Aron (George Clooney), and Zus (Mark Isham). After witnessing their parents' brutal murder by Nazi soldiers, the brothers flee their hometown with a small group of surviving Jews. They eventually settle in the Naliboki Forest, where they establish an idyllic community, providing shelter and protection to hundreds of Jewish refugees. As the Nazis intensify their efforts to eradicate the Jewish population, the Bielski brothers realize that their isolated haven is unsustainable. They make the difficult decision to join the Soviet partisans, led by a Russian officer named Nikitin (David Paymer). The brothers become a key component of the partisan force, using their knowledge of the forest and their farming skills to help supply the resistance movement. As the war rages on, the Bielski brothers face numerous challenges. They must balance their desire for revenge against the Nazis with their commitment to protecting their fellow Jews and fighting for freedom. The film explores themes of family, loyalty, and sacrifice as the brothers navigate the treacherous landscape of war. Defiance features a talented ensemble cast, including Craig, Bell, Clooney, and Isham, who deliver powerful performances as the Bielski brothers. The movie also features stunning cinematography, capturing the beauty and brutality of the Belarusian forest during wartime. Throughout the film, the Bielski family's story is interwoven with historical events, providing a gripping portrayal of the struggles faced by Jewish partisans during World War II. Defiance pays tribute to the bravery and resilience of the Bielski family and the thousands of other Jews who resisted Nazi occupation in Eastern Europe.
Reviews
Ryan
Feels a bit like "Assembly," but not as impactful. NO MORE WAR.
Harmony
In any war film with two male leads, there's always one I like less. Of the two with green eyes, I prefer the one with the lighter shade. He's also the one responsible for the final rescue. But what's wrong with the darker-eyed one? War itself is the mistake. P.S. I hate when they shoehorn in romance at crucial moments! Great OST.
Jace
War is an amplifier of humanity, magnifying both its best and worst aspects, causing the river of life to surge, swirl, and relentlessly flow.
Anthony
Zwick is definitely a top-tier craftsman in Hollywood, capable of handling any genre and delivering a decent result. This film is no exception: it's conventional and steady. You can sense ambition in a few places, but it clashes with the overall tone of the movie. The editing and cinematography in the night raid on the police station, in particular, feel jarring and out of place. The most moving aspect is the historical fact itself: "Our revenge is to live," which is incredibly inspiring.
Alana
World War II and the Jewish experience always make for compelling subject matter. While the story itself might not break new ground, Daniel Craig's performance is definitely the highlight.
Charlotte
"Defiance" is a powerful and moving film based on a true story of courage and resilience. The four Jewish brothers, skilled and determined, take up arms against the Nazis in the midst of World War II. Their bravery and leadership inspire the formation of a partisan movement, striking back at the enemy and protecting fellow Jews in hiding. With stunning cinematography and gripping performances, this film pays tribute to the brothers' heroism and the unwavering spirit of the human resistance.
Judah
The film Defiance, based on a true story, follows four Jewish brothers who escape Nazi-occupied West Belarus to join Soviet partisans during WWII. It's a gripping tale of loyalty, sacrifice, and family bonds under extreme circumstances. The movie masterfully combines action with emotional depth, showing how brothers navigate their duties and relationships amidst chaos and danger.
