Backdrop preview Once More Unto the Breach backdrop
Once More Unto the Breach

Once More Unto the Breach (2019)

Oct 10, 2019 1h 10m Drama History War

July, 1941. After the beginning of the German invasion, an Italian soldier, a veteran of the colonial wars, is sent to the Soviet front. As he remembers the fairy tales his Russian mother used to tell him, the train he is travelling in crosses Europe on its way to the vast Ukrainian plains, where the enemy and a cruel winter await him… (Based on the experiences of several Italian soldiers.)

Watch Trailer
Directed by Federico Ferrone

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Federico Ferrone
  • Michele Manzolini
Producer
  • Claudio Giapponesi

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Once More Unto the Breach examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Federico Ferrone brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Once More Unto the Breach took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 121 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 886 individual shots.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2019, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Once More Unto the Breach shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Night and Fog, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Once More Unto the Breach offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Judgment at Nuremberg and The Bridge on the River Kwai explore similar territory, Once More Unto the Breach stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 10, 2019
  • Runtime: 1h 10m

Where to Watch

History Vault
DocAlliance Films