The Great Raid (2005)

The Great Raid (2005) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Introduction

“The Great Raid” (2005) is a war film directed by John Dahl, inspired by real-life events during World War II. This historically grounded movie brings to life one of the most daring and successful rescue missions in military history — the raid on the Cabanatuan Prison Camp in the Philippines. The film, starring Benjamin Bratt, Joseph Fiennes, James Franco, and Connie Nielsen, tells the gripping story of American soldiers and Filipino guerrillas working together to free over 500 Allied prisoners of war (POWs).

For those who appreciate historically rich films and intense war dramas, “The Great Raid” offers a captivating look at courage, sacrifice, and heroism. In this review, we’ll break down the movie’s key aspects, share its strengths and weaknesses, and provide a detailed guide on where you can stream or purchase it online, especially if you’re based in the United States.

Plot Summary

Set in January 1945, “The Great Raid” recounts the events leading up to the daring mission to liberate American POWs held in a Japanese prison camp. The film follows three intersecting storylines: the plight of the American prisoners inside Cabanatuan, the U.S. Army Rangers preparing for the raid, and the efforts of Filipino resistance fighters who assist in the operation.

Lieutenant Colonel Henry Mucci (Benjamin Bratt) and Captain Robert Prince (James Franco) lead a band of soldiers on a harrowing 30-mile journey through enemy lines to reach the camp. Meanwhile, Major Gibson (Joseph Fiennes), a POW suffering from malaria, struggles to survive inside the prison. Nurse Margaret Utinsky (Connie Nielsen) risks her life by smuggling medical supplies to the prisoners while maintaining a secret relationship with Major Gibson.

With powerful performances and emotional weight, the movie carefully balances action sequences with the human side of war, showing the resilience of those involved.

Cast and Crew

• Director: John Dahl
• Writers: Carlo Bernard, Doug Miro (screenplay), based on the book The Great Raid on Cabanatuan by William B. Breuer
• Starring:
  • Benjamin Bratt as Lt. Col. Henry Mucci
  • James Franco as Capt. Robert Prince
  • Joseph Fiennes as Major Gibson
  • Connie Nielsen as Margaret Utinsky

John Dahl is best known for his work in neo-noir films such as The Last Seduction (1994) and Rounders (1998). In The Great Raid, he shifts to historical war drama, delivering a slow-burning narrative that emphasizes both the strategic planning and the emotional intensity of the mission.

The Great Raid: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

1. Historical Accuracy: The film excels in its depiction of the real-life events, making it one of the more historically accurate war films of its time. The production team worked closely with historians and military consultants to ensure the authenticity of the weapons, uniforms, and tactics used.
2. Emotional Weight: The performances of Joseph Fiennes and Connie Nielsen add significant emotional depth to the film. The love story between Major Gibson and Margaret Utinsky is understated but powerful, offering viewers a break from the relentless tension of the raid.
3. Tension and Suspense: The final act of the film, depicting the raid itself, is gripping and intense. Dahl does a commendable job of building suspense, and the battle scenes are realistically portrayed without resorting to excessive Hollywood dramatization.
4. Cinematography: The cinematography by Peter Menzies Jr. beautifully captures the tropical landscape of the Philippines, while also immersing viewers in the harsh conditions faced by the soldiers and prisoners.

Weaknesses

1. Pacing Issues: At 132 minutes, the film’s pacing can feel slow at times, particularly in the first half where the focus is more on the preparation for the raid rather than the raid itself. Some viewers might find it difficult to stay engaged through the slower build-up.
2. Character Development: While the film does a great job with historical details, some characters, particularly the supporting ones, lack depth. This could have been an opportunity to delve more into the personal stories of the soldiers involved in the raid.
3. Underused Star Power: With actors like James Franco and Benjamin Bratt, audiences might expect more standout moments from the film’s leading cast. However, the film’s focus on historical accuracy sometimes prevents these actors from fully showcasing their range.

Where to Watch “The Great Raid” Online in the U.S.

For those interested in watching The Great Raid, it’s available across several streaming platforms, with both rental and purchase options. Here’s a breakdown of where you can stream the film in the United States:

Streaming Services

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • Available for rent at $3.99 and purchase at $12.99 in HD.
   • Amazon Prime members can also occasionally find the movie included in their subscription, though this can vary based on the platform’s licensing agreements.
2. Apple TV
   • Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
   • Apple TV offers the film in HD quality, providing a great viewing experience for fans of war movies.
3. Vudu
   • The Great Raid is available for rent at $3.99 and purchase at $12.99.
   • Vudu also offers a variety of formats including HD and SD, allowing for flexibility based on your device’s capabilities.
4. Google Play Movies
   • Rent for $3.99 and purchase for $12.99.
   • Google Play offers the movie in HD and SD, with easy streaming on devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

Subscription-Based Streaming Services

As of now, The Great Raid is not available for streaming on platforms like Netflix or Hulu with a subscription. However, this could change as streaming rights are frequently updated, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest listings on these services.

DVD and Blu-ray

For those who prefer physical media, The Great Raid is also available on DVD and Blu-ray. Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy offer various purchase options, often at prices ranging from $8 to $15 depending on the edition.

Conclusion

The Great Raid (2005) is a must-watch for history buffs and war movie enthusiasts. While it may suffer from some pacing issues and underdeveloped characters, its strong focus on historical accuracy and emotional depth make it a rewarding viewing experience. If you’re looking for a realistic portrayal of one of the most heroic missions of World War II, this film delivers a riveting tale of bravery, sacrifice, and camaraderie.

To watch The Great Raid online, head over to popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, and Google Play. Whether you’re renting or purchasing, you’ll be able to enjoy this compelling war drama at your convenience.