Produced in Belgium in 2024 last frontline Shows us the world wars of the 1900s. Also known as WW1; also known as “The War to End All Wars.” This was the first time the Germans decided to try to take over the world. This was all before Adolf Hitler took off his shorts.
story
The life of a Belgian peasant family is nearly destroyed by the advancing German troops. These soldiers were part of the European invaders of World War I. Their villages and neighbors became fodder for the “Huns”. The title given to “barbarian” troops by the British Army. Leonard, a local farmer, finds himself both a leader and a savior.
A German corporal (Lorenz) goes to extremes and embarks on a personal vendetta of sorts against the locals. Leonard and his followers must flee to France.
behind the scenes
Writer/Director Julien Hayet-Kerknawi Co-screenwriter last frontline Join Kate Wood for an intense yet quiet look at the beginnings of the First World War. The film is slow-paced and mimics the cultural lifestyle of the period. Belgium is part of the Benelux Low Countries and is naturally a horticultural powerhouse. Hayet-Kerknawi shows us the agricultural and low-key daily happenings that persisted during this period.
Cinematographer Xavier Van D’huynslager imbues every frame with quiet authority. This is consistent with the “theme” of “The Past” set by the director. Editors Dieter Allaerts and David Verdurme put each scene together expertly. Their efforts make this almost slow-paced film work. We never feel disconnected or lost. Every scene is beautiful because of it.
The set design, costumes, and weapons are all very realistic.
main actors
Iain Glen – Leonard (widower, father, farmer.)
Sasha Luss – Louise (daughter and lover:)
James Downey – Andrean, son of Leonard.
Joe Anderson-Lorenz. Vicious and brutal soldiers.
David Calder as Father Michael
Leander Vyvey – Peer Schultz, a villager who wants to fight the advancing army.
The pedigree of all these performers is admirable. Most have impressive sincerity, and the newcomers have their own. Joe Anderson plays a police officer suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who can’t wait to hurt or kill another innocent person.
The casting department is working overtime here to find the perfect combination of actors. Not a single actor makes a mistake here.
only complaint
My only complaint is the “magic” ammo. Each protagonist has a rifle with seemingly unlimited ammunition. Only one character grabs a weapon from a dead soldier, and no one reloads their weapon.
can finally be forgiven
This obvious faux pas was ultimately forgivable. This story is not about the mechanics of a firefight. This is a story about people struggling to be safe.
everything is fine
Frederic van der Mootel’s score for this film is excellent. Silence where needed, music setting the tone elsewhere. Scenes that require silence build tension well. It’s reminiscent of the 1975 Australian thriller Picnic at Hanging Rock. Like Australian movies, silence equals tension and suspense. This limited score adds wonderful color to the spare atmosphere. last frontline.
judgment
last frontline is a solid 4.5-star production from Enigma and writer/director Julien Hayet-Kerknawi. Now in theaters, you should really try to see this movie. It’s a lovely juxtaposition of extreme quiet and the violence of war. It also provided an opportunity for Iain Glen to show off his talents.
trailer
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