The 2019 war film Midway airs on Film4 tonight at 6:45pm, drawing praise from viewers who have called it "the best war movie ever" on Rotten Tomatoes.
The production chronicles significant events from the opening six months in the Pacific Theatre of World War II, encompassing the Attack on Pearl Harbor and progressing through to the Battle of Midway. It is a remake of the original 1976 American film bearing the same title.
Cast and reception
The ensemble features several prominent Hollywood figures, including Woody Harrelson, Ed Skrein, Patrick Wilson, Luke Evans and a part performed by musician Nick Jonas. Despite the impressive cast, the film proved to be a box office disappointment upon its release, yet supporters continue to champion its storyline.
One supporter on Rotten Tomatoes dubbed it "the best war movie ever", with another claiming it is a "great historical action-packed movie". A viewer wrote: "As a history lover and 35-year history teacher, I highly recommend Midway."
Historical accuracy
Historical authenticity is a subject that repeatedly emerges amongst critiques for this production. While the film does take some creative liberties, creators Emmerich and Tooke were determined to maintain historical accuracy, subsequently earning praise from both veterans and historians. When compared to the 1976 film and the 2001 movie Pearl Harbour, they have asserted this represents a more 'accurate portrayal' of the actual events.
Another viewer shared: "The movie was well balanced, spanning personal stories (based on real-life characters) to superbly filmed battle scenes. The movie covered Pearl Harbor, the Doolittle Raid and finally culminated in the Battle of Midway. An excellent movie for those who want to understand key events of World War II. Full of action."
Plot and availability
The film chronicles the events of May 1942, when the Imperial Japanese Navy mounted an assault on the island of Midway, hoping to establish it as a base for operations against Pearl Harbour. With control of the territory, they would also aim to launch attacks on the US west coast. However, US Navy intelligence had anticipated their strategy and discovered their intentions. Consequently, Admiral Chester Nimitz dispatches two US task groups equipped with three aircraft carriers to establish an ambush for the Japanese.
One enthusiast shared: "It was true to history and an 'on the edge of your seat' movie. Absolutely GREAT movie....and a must-see for the history buff." Midway airs on Film4 this evening at 6:45pm and can also be rented on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.
