The ‘most underrated’ war film that could become ‘an all-time great masterpiece’ | Films | Entertainment
War films often explore some of the darkest moments in history. Many are emotional, hard-hitting, and tell stories of survival, sacrifice, and bravery. While some become instant classics, others don’t get the recognition they deserve.
But one powerful movie is now being described as “the most underrated war film ever” with some even saying it could soon be remembered as a masterpiece. That would be ‘A Hidden Life’, which is based on the true story of Franz Jagerstatter, an Austrian farmer who refused to swear loyalty to Adolf Hitler during the Second World War.
The film follows Franz and his wife Franziska as they face isolation from their village, pressure from the authorities, and the heartbreak of separation, all because of Franz’s refusal to support the Nazis.
The 2019 film was directed by Terrence Malick and stars August Diehl, Valerie Pachner, and Matthias Schoenaerts.
Although it was not a major box office hit and missed out on major awards, many believe it’s one of the greatest war films of recent years.
Film experts at Collider said: “A Hidden Life is another arthouse gem from Terrence Malick, a filmmaker who works so infrequently that it feels like every single one of his projects is an event.
“A Hidden Life is one of the most emotionally overwhelming films that Malick has ever made, and marked a major return for him.
“Although it sadly was shut out of any major awards consideration, A Hidden Life is a film that may be regarded as an all-time great masterpiece within the next few decades.”
Viewers have also shared similar thoughts online.
One reviewer wrote: “This is probably the most underrated war film ever. It’s a beautiful movie, it truly is.
“The acting is incredible and the story is suspenseful in the most absolutely worst quiet way possible. And I love it, but I hate it. Why?
“I don’t know what to think after this. I’m left questioning everything. There’s this feeling of dread through the whole movie but you almost trick yourself into thinking it will get better. How could actual people have been so cruel and heartless?”
Another said: “Transcendent. A truly spiritual film. I don’t have many words tonight. A lot of thoughts and emotions.
“I didn’t expect a perfect score from me this year, but I am just floored and overwhelmed by the visual poetry and spiritual magnitude of it all. It feels transcendent. With a beauty that permeates all the way to one’s own relationship with God.”
A Hidden Life can be streamed on Disney+.