Search - Breaker Morant on DVD

Hero or Villain, Breaker Morant is both...and niether.

McGillicutty | The Sooner Nation | 04/14/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Certainly the most compelling "men-on-trial" film ever made, "Breaker Morant" is stunning in its straightforward storytelling and brilliant performances. An instant classic, this is a must-have for all film buffs.



Based on a real incident and set during the Boar War, three Australian soldiers are on trial for killing Boar prisoners and a German missionary. The soldiers' fate seems to be a foregone conclusion until their inexperienced lawyer puts up a surprisingly effective defense. Director Bruce Beresford doesn't waste a single shot and keeps the pace tight while the cast, led by Edward Woodward as 'Breaker' Morant, delivers top notch performances.



I was most impressed by the new "HD" transfer of the film. A far cry from old VHS pan 'n scan copy I've long ago worn out. The barren landscape of Australia which is very similar to the "Boar" country of South Africa really stands out and must be viewed in this new light.



As good as the film is, I was less than impressed with the few extra features the DVD offers. No commentary, no cast/crew lists, not even a film trailer which is surprising in this day 'n age of DVD releases. What we do have is a 20 minute history of the Boar War done in a dull, documentary style that tells the origins of the conflict, but literally stops its story only a few months into the war. No information on how the war ended or even how the British overcame their initial setbacks. Also included is a 30 second radio spot and that's it.



Despite this, I still give this release a 5 star rating as the film itself is so important, so good, so enjoyable to view that I feel everyone should have a copy for their collection."

Great movie

J. Carey | oregon | 06/13/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I saw this in the theater years ago and had it on a VHS tape until it broke. It has been one of my favorite movies since the first time I saw it. Solid cast, great story, beautifully filmed and this CD is just fine. I have since found out that the "Breaker" wasn't all that the film shows but I still love this film and can enjoy it whenever I see it.

While there is some doubt as to how much of the side story is true, the facts about the British treatment of the Boers, and the Aussie troops has been proved so I feel that the gist of the movie is close enough.

I really recommend this film."

POLITICS TRIUMPHS OVER INTEGRITY

W. Stewart Roberts Jr. | Fullerton, CA, USA | 04/12/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This true story just once more emphasizes that politicians will sacrafice others for their own gain."

Brit history

B. Loosbrock | Woodbury, MN | 06/16/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Be ready for a very interesting movie. The actors played their rolls in the courtroom scene wonderfully. History, Brit style."