Movie Review: Danger Close - The Battle of Long Tan

 

Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan

After a long time, Saturday night was reserved for movie. "The Battle of Long Tan" was an Australian war film that was on the table. I admit that I have stopped watching war films since the most of them appear to be propaganda with little content and historical authenticity. This is when the film really shines out.

The shocking aspect is the Australian government's appreciation of troops' gallantry after 42 years long years. Yup, you read it right, red tape exists everywhere. Anyways lets get back to movie.

So, how does this sound? This film makes a real attempt to depict the battle scene without gimmicks or false bravado. The Australian soldiers were outnumbered, inexperienced, and with an average age of 20 years facing their worst nightmare - The Vietnamese Army.

This historical war picture will have you on the edge of your seat as we discuss its film summary, historical accuracy, similarities to other war films, and, of course, the all-important overall rating and recommendation. So grab some popcorn and let's get started! 

Film Synopsis and Background

Set during the Vietnam War, "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan" is a gripping tour through one of the most ferocious fights in Australian military history.

Starting at base camp Nui Dat, Major Smith (Fimmel), an ex-Special Forces soldier, is fed up with babysitting green conscripts, the most of whom are under the age of 21.

Soon, the story took a critical turn when Smith quickly divided the force into roaming platoons. As one advanced party was nearly overrun by the enemy, Smith, who was heading the second party along with the third section of the 11th platoon, was forced to dash to save the surviving advanced party men. Racing against time and well-entrenched Viet Cong fighters, the true spirit of combat emerges. As bullets fly and explosions rock the screen, we see the troops' genuine grit and tenacity as they battle for their lives and one another.

The film captures the harsh realities of war with stunning visual effects and attention to historical accuracy. The audience is transported back in time to the humid jungles of Vietnam. The cinematography beautifully depicts the tension and chaos of the battlefield, immersing viewers in the heart-pounding experience of combat. 

The film pays tribute to the sacrifices and heroism of the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of Australian military history.

Historical Accuracy and Context

The film is meticulously researched and expertly crafted to transport viewers back to the intense and harrowing Vietnam War era. From the authentic costumes to the realistic battle sequences, every detail feels genuine and true to history. You'll feel like you're right there in the muddy trenches!

The honesty with which the film was made allow viewers to to truly immerse themselves in the story and connect with the characters on a more personal level.

Comparisons to Other War Films

Now, let's talk about how "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan" stacks up against other war films. 

When delving deeper into the realm of war films, it's fascinating to draw parallels between "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan" and iconic movies like "Saving Private Ryan" and "Black Hawk Down." While each film has its own unique narrative and style, they all share a common thread of showcasing the harrowing realities of war and the resilience of the human spirit.

I am happy to include this film on the legendary list of films because of its basic storytelling style and realistic representation of military tactics. This keeps the viewers engaged until the final frame.

My Take

The emotional depth of the characters and the exploration of themes such as solidarity, leadership, and resilience elevate "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan" beyond a mere action flick. It serves as a poignant reminder of the courage and camaraderie that can emerge in the face of adversity, leaving a lasting impact on viewers long after the credits roll.

So, what's the final verdict on "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan"? Drumroll, please! With its powerful storytelling, jaw-dropping action sequences, and balanced mix of drama and humor, this film earns a solid 9 out of 10. It's a must-watch for any war film enthusiast or anyone looking for a thrilling cinematic experience.