atlasmb "Breaker Morant" is one of the finest films ever made. A historical drama about the Boer War, it contains moments of humor and moments of heartbreak. It does many things and does them all well. It is about colonialism and the problems inherent in a war of occupation, matters of class, and the various ways that war results in dishonesty and betrayal.The film includes an amazing courtroom drama that works on many levels.It includes wonderful production values and memorable performances, especially by Bryan Brown (Lt. Peter Handcock), Jack Thompson (Major J. F. Thomas) and Edward Woodward (Lt. Harry Harbord Morant). Woodward's performance includes one scene that illustrates the power of the written word, specifically poetry, better than any other I have seen.Many war films have exposed the hypocrisies of war. Many have shown the ways it allows the uncaring to sacrifice others for worthless causes. "Breaker Morant" uses flashbacks and legal proceedings to unravel how such things can happen. It deals with honor and duty and contrasts them with other character traits that are counterfeits.I recommend this film to any adult who appreciates fine storytelling and a valuable message.

jadavix "Breaker Morant" is a riveting courtroom drama, and one of the great tales of injustice during wartime. The 'Breaker' of the title refers to horse breaker; Harry Morant was known for his ability to induct wild horses into the service of the military.However, when one of his cohorts, Captain Hunt, is mutilated by Boer guerrillas in South Africa, he orders a firing squad of a group of prisoners who may or may not be responsible for the gruesome murder.The second Boer war was known as the "dirty war" for a reason. There were many crimes of war committed by the British forces. In the case of Morant and his two deputies, it seems scapegoating by the crown was the obvious cause for this bit of judicial hypocrisy. The movie is captivating and refreshingly unbiased. It doesn't turn a blind eye to the realities of war in which anything goes and superiors turn a blind eye whenever it suits them, but are quick to point the finger, and absent themselves, when called on it.It is ideally cast: Edward Woodward as the stiff upper lip Englishman, Jack Thompson as the incisive lawyer, Bryan Brown as the free living ladies man, but above all, the direction is exceptional. "Breaker Morant" is not only one of the best Australian movies; it's one of the best dramas ever made.

gavin6942 Three Australian lieutenants are court martialed for executing prisoners as a way of deflecting attention from war crimes committed by their superior officers.I believe this is based on a true story, which makes it all the better. What we have is a classic tale of responsibility and leadership. Do soldiers have a responsibility to protect their leaders, even when the leaders are in the wrong and it could mean their death? This happens from time to time, and a recent example (as of 2015) are the incidents at Abu Ghraib. Should one be punished or following orders? And should those giving orders be held at fault? If yes, how far up the chain? Some of this, in different ways, goes back to the Nuremberg trials, and much earlier. The military and war do not work on the same principles as civilian life and the actions we take in our communities.

Jefbecco-1 First of all let me get all the mandatory praising out of the way. This film has several brilliant performances,it's writing is witty and intelligent. I own it and I can't count how many times I've watched it, but I never tire of it. Now for weightier matters.This movie definitely addresses the issue of ethics and morality in wartime. it's shows that soldiering is a dangerous profession in so many ways. One will often have more than one foe. There is the armed foe that one has been sent to fight and then there is one's superiors and peers. Warfare is the business of nations, which means there are often many things on the table besides defeating ones enemy. Politicians have a way of changing their objectives and not informing the soldiers of the changes. Previously condoned behavior can suddenly become "inconvenient" and the soldier find him or herself the scapegoat.What I get from this superb movie is that sacrificing one's own beliefs and ,doing what you know to be wrong, because one's superiors say it's all right, is a dangerous thing indeed. It isn't worth it. Warfare is a grim activity. Killing and survival often are and holding on to one's ethics are often the only thing one may have. As I said earlier, danger for a soldier doesn't always come from the enemy, sometimes it comes from ones own. Never sacrifice your morals for politicians,they aren't worth it.