As a cinephile who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of war films, I must say that “The Last Front” stands out as a poignant and powerful addition to the genre. The film’s setting in Flanders, Belgium during World War I, offers a fresh perspective on the horrors of war, particularly its impact on peaceful communities and innocent civilians.
“Hold the Line”
In the Flemish region of Belgium, August 1914 serves as the backdrop, where Commander Maximilian Von Rauch (Philippe Brenninkmeyer) commands a German military unit, moving towards countryside settlements. His son, Lt. Laurentz (Joe Anderson), displays an indiscriminate attitude towards combatants and civilians, mercilessly killing women and children in retaliation for one of his comrades being wounded by a sniper. Von Rauch condemns his son’s actions and fiery temperament, fearing that such brutal killings could transform everyone into their adversaries.
Several miles away, Leonard Lambert (Iain Glen) sadly remembers his deceased wife (Trine Thielen). He watches as Johanna (Emma Dupont), his dutiful teenage daughter, works the fields and does laundry. Where has his son vanished? Adrien (James Downie) lies under a tree reciting poetry to a smitten Louise (Sasha Luss). The daughter of the town’s wealthy doctor (Koen De Bouw) knows both of their fathers would disapprove. Adrien doesn’t care. They’ll marry regardless.
Gentle Lives Shattered
At Father Michael’s request, Leonard ventures into town, as the townsfolk are aware of the approaching Germans. The townspeople are filled with fear, and they will likely turn to Leonard when the adversaries arrive. However, Leonard harbors no enthusiasm for war; he has crops to harvest and a son who strays to deal with. Upon returning home, Leonard intends to reason with his son and Louise. Their discussion is abruptly halted by Johanna’s blood-curdling shriek. A German soldier has seized Johanna.
In “The Last Front,” Rauch doesn’t automatically view every German as wicked. He adheres to the principles of war and finds Laurentz’s transformation abhorrent, yet he keeps him on duty. A stern verbal reprimand fails to halt Laurentz’s rampage. Laurentz views his father as an old fool, and drunkenly belligerent. They suffer losses because the locals are deceitful collaborators. Everyone is a combatant who must be subdued by any means possible. These people are seen as subhuman trash who deserve their fate.
1) Leonard, much like other villagers, harbors a misguided belief that the Germans might spare them and target only the Belgian soldiers. However, he never fathomed the atrocity where they would be mercilessly slaughtered as if they were mere animals. Watching these scenes is excruciating. Hayet-Kerknawi, who based this feature on his acclaimed short film, leaves no room for sugarcoating, vividly portraying the ruthless plundering of a picturesque paradise. The once peaceful streets are now strewn with the bodies of terrified victims.
Forced to Fight
1. In the struggle to commit a heinous act, Leonard is constantly tormented by his late wife’s ghostly presence. He must suppress his own compassion to keep pace with Laurentz’s brutal cruelty. Renowned actor Glen brings Hayet-Kerknawi’s script to life through powerful physical expressions that showcase his transformation from paralyzing fear to cold determination. While this transformation is impactful, it lacks proper explanation. As Father Micheal had hoped, Glen takes control. However, the movie fails to clarify why Leonard was highly regarded by the villagers when initially portrayed as a recluse. The second act of “The Last Front” follows a predictable trajectory, with Leonard stepping up to the bloody challenge.
1. Louise displays the resilience required by survivors in the face of the unfathomable. A life once filled with privilege and genuine affection is reduced to ruins. Her character development is both captivating and authentic. Those forced to escape war must find ways to survive, yet are haunted by the loss of loved ones and the atrocities they’ve witnessed. In a powerful monologue near the film’s end, Hayet-Kerknawi as Luss questions how such a serene day in nature can be tainted by the bloodshed of unimaginable hate. Her words serve as a harsh indictment of humanity’s insatiable appetite for destruction. Luss delivers a striking performance, marking a significant milestone in her acting career.
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“The Last Front” is a creation by Zilvermeer Productions and The Last Front BV, now available in select cinemas courtesy of Enigma Releasing. Check out the trailer below for a sneak peek.
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2024-08-15 07:01