The 2016 Netflix war drama The Siege of Jadotville, starring Jamie Dornan, has been praised by viewers as more realistic than Saving Private Ryan. The film tells the true story of an Irish Army unit's heroic stand during the Congo Crisis of the 1960s.
Based on a True Story
Directed by Richie Smyth and written by Kevin Brodbin, the film is a collaboration between Irish and South African productions. It is based on the book of the same name by Declan Power, retelling the events of an Irish Army unit and their role in the Congo Crisis.
From 1960 to 1965, part of Congo was in political upheaval and conflict. The Irish stepped in to help as part of the United Nations Operation. The film begins with the execution of Congo's Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba and the outbreak of civil war before depicting the harrowing details of warfare.
Cast and Reception
Jamie Dornan plays the lead role as the Irish Army officer who commanded the Irish UN force. He stated that the real-life veterans "didn't get the recognition they deserved" and was delighted to shine a light on their "heroic" efforts.
A fan shared on Rotten Tomatoes: "One of the best war movies around! I had no idea about this story, a total injustice to these guys, total heroes!" Another viewer said: "Amazing true story of real-life heroes. Great movie, well-told story, great acting. A must see."
Authenticity and Awards
The film won three Irish Film & Television Awards. One fan wrote: "So many other war films seem slightly cheesy in comparison to this one. It's full of realistic battlefield action - and I mean FULL."
Director Ritchie Smythe put the entire cast through a rigorous training camp in South Africa prior to filming. One viewer commented: "Absolutely worth watching. This is an incredible true story on valour, determination and intelligence against brutal force."
The film is currently available to stream exclusively on Netflix.
