Before Dawn (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Before Dawn” (2024) is a heartfelt World War I drama directed by Jordan Prince-Wright, focusing on the often-overlooked Australian perspective of the war. The film presents a raw, unpolished view of life in the trenches, offering a more intimate portrayal of camaraderie, tragedy, and personal sacrifice. While the film may lack the grandeur and production quality of blockbuster war movies, it compensates with emotional depth and a unique perspective. If you’re interested in exploring an Australian take on World War I, here’s everything you need to know about this film and where to watch it online.
Plot Summary
“Before Dawn” follows the story of Jim Collins, played by Levi Miller, a young man from rural Western Australia who joins the war effort alongside his friends. The film explores Jim’s journey from his peaceful life on a sheep farm to the brutal reality of the Western Front during World War I. Torn between his duty to his family and his loyalty to his friends, Jim reluctantly enlists and soon faces the horrors of war.
The film emphasizes the bonds formed between soldiers, as well as the emotional and physical toll that warfare exacts. While the film touches on well-known tropes of war cinema—loss, sacrifice, and endurance—it brings a uniquely Australian flavor to the narrative, with a heavy focus on the personal connections between the characters.
Key Cast and Performances
Levi Miller shines as Jim Collins, the film’s emotional center. His portrayal of a young man torn between familial duty and the pull of camaraderie brings a raw, heartfelt vulnerability to the screen. Myles Pollard as Sergeant Beaufort adds a commanding presence, playing a fatherly figure who attempts to guide the young men through the war’s brutal realities.
Ed Oxenbould and Stephen Peacocke also bring strong performances, rounding out the cast and showcasing the film’s focus on relationships forged in the crucible of war.
Cinematography and Production
Shot primarily in Esperance, Western Australia, the film takes advantage of its modest budget by focusing on tight, character-driven scenes within the confines of trenches. Director Jordan Prince-Wright chose to emphasize the claustrophobic, gritty conditions of trench warfare. The cover of night and the earthwork trenches add a layer of authenticity, even if the film’s visual scope is limited compared to larger productions like “1917” or “All Quiet on the Western Front.”
The budget constraints are evident, especially in scenes that aim to portray large-scale battles but fall short due to limited resources. However, this B-movie quality adds a raw, documentary-like realism to the film, making viewers feel as though they are right there in the trenches with the soldiers.
Themes Explored
1. Camaraderie and Sacrifice
“Before Dawn” brings to the forefront the bonds formed between soldiers. The theme of camaraderie is prevalent, with Jim and his fellow soldiers facing not only physical hardships but also emotional turmoil as they navigate loss and trauma.
2. The Horror of War
While the film doesn’t have the large-scale battle scenes seen in more mainstream war films, it doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of World War I. From waterlogged trenches to the constant threat of death, the film immerses viewers in the grim and unrelenting conditions faced by soldiers.
3. The Australian Perspective
“Before Dawn” offers a unique take on the war by focusing on Australian soldiers, a perspective often overshadowed by British or American narratives. The film highlights the contributions of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), adding to the canon of films that commemorate their role in the Great War.
Streaming Options: Where to Watch “Before Dawn” Online
As of now, “Before Dawn” is available on several streaming platforms, making it accessible to viewers across the United States and globally.
1. Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: “Before Dawn” is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Prime subscribers can watch the film for free, while non-subscribers can rent or purchase the movie through the platform.
- Apple TV+: “Before Dawn” can be rented or purchased on Apple TV+. This option is ideal for viewers who prefer to own the film or watch it offline.
2. Rental/Purchase Options
- Google Play: You can rent or purchase “Before Dawn” through Google Play. This platform allows users to download the film and watch it offline at their convenience.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing the film is Vudu. The platform offers high-definition streaming and is known for its extensive library of independent films.
Final Verdict
“Before Dawn” isn’t a groundbreaking war film in terms of its story or production quality, but it offers a unique and emotionally resonant perspective on World War I from an Australian viewpoint. The film’s focus on personal relationships and the emotional toll of war makes it stand out. While its limited budget is apparent in some of the battle scenes, the tight, character-driven narrative compensates for the lack of large-scale action.
Levi Miller’s performance as Jim Collins is the highlight of the film, bringing a relatable and touching portrayal of a young man coming of age in the harshest of circumstances. Myles Pollard also delivers a standout performance as Sergeant Beaufort, adding gravitas to the supporting cast.
For those looking for an intimate, character-driven war film that shines a light on the Australian experience of World War I, “Before Dawn” is worth a watch. It’s available on several streaming platforms, making it easy to access whether you’re looking to rent or stream.
