Netflix has unveiled another cinematic gem for British audiences, a gritty World War Two action-thriller that combines the tension of war with the swagger of a spaghetti western. 'Blood & Gold', originally released on the streaming platform in 2023, continues to captivate viewers with its potent mix of bullets, black humour, and blood-spattered chaos.
A Deserter's Dangerous Quest
Set in the dying days of the Second World War, this German-speaking film (presented with English subtitles) follows a weary German deserter named Heinrich, portrayed by Robert Maaser. His simple desire to return home alive is brutally interrupted when he becomes entangled with a vicious SS unit obsessively hunting a hidden stash of gold.
He finds an unlikely ally in Elsa, played by Marie Hacke, a sharp-tongued local fighter determined to protect her village from Nazi domination. Together, this reluctant duo is thrust into a treacherous treasure hunt, navigating a landscape riddled with intense shootouts and wild set pieces that feel more akin to a classic western than a traditional war drama.
Stylistic Flair and Critical Acclaim
Director Peter Thorwarth imbues the 110-minute film with a distinct, dusty, and sun-soaked aesthetic, drawing clear inspiration from the legendary Sergio Leone rather than conventional war filmmaking. The result is a grimy, frantic, and visually bold mash-up that has clearly resonated with Netflix subscribers.
The critical reception has been notably strong. 'Blood & Gold' currently holds an impressive 85% rating on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes. One reviewer celebrated the film, calling it "splendid", while another highlighted its sheer entertainment value: "So much fun! Great score, cinematography, acting, fun story with some over the top fun set pieces."
Historical Fiction with a Thrilling Edge
It is important to note that the film does not strive for complete historical accuracy, a point acknowledged by some viewers. One fan defended this creative choice, stating, "I see this film more as a 'what if' kind of movie which is fun, full of action and has a great plot." This approach gives the narrative a Quentin Tarantino-esque freedom, prioritising thrilling action and stylistic bravado over strict historical fidelity.
For those whose appetite for foreign-language World War Two stories is not yet sated, the article also mentions the Norwegian historical film 'Narvik'. Released in 2022, it explores the Battle of Narvik in 1940 and has been highly praised for its dual focus on large-scale military conflict and intimate civilian stories, currently boasting a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
