5 Days of War 2011
Directed by
Renny Harlin
Made by
Anchor Bay Films
Plot Summary
In this intensely human portrayal of courage under fire, acclaimed director Renny Harlin combines adrenaline-pumping action with genuine human drama, weaving a gripping narrative about a war reporter ensnared behind enemy lines during the 2008 Russian invasion of Georgia. As the nation fights for survival, a courageous coalition of international journalists and local Georgians puts their lives on the line to reveal the true human cost of military conflict.
Filmed on location for six weeks, 5 DAYS OF AUGUST presents a suspenseful portrait of bravery in dire circumstances. Following a devastating ambush in Baghdad that claimed the life of his dear friend, Miriam Eisner (portrayed by Heather Graham), American war correspondent Thomas Anders (played by Rupert Friend) seeks solace from his haunting past. The looming threat of war draws him to the chaotic republic of Georgia, just before the Russian invasion.
Reuniting with a determined group of war reporters in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, Anders embarks on a perilous journey with his cameraman and fellow road-warrior, Sebastian (played by Richard Coyle). They head north to the breakaway republic of South Ossetia, barely making it in time to witness a horrific Russian airstrike on the tranquil village of Vaziani. Amidst the chaos, they boldly document the devastation while assisting survivors to a military hospital in Gori, guided by the resilient and beautiful Georgian school teacher, Tatia (played by Emmanuelle Chriqui).
Struggling to share his story amidst the din of Russian propaganda and a world preoccupied with the Beijing Olympics, Anders and Sebastian hastily return to the front lines to aid a desperate Tatia in searching for her missing family. As they find themselves caught in a full-scale assault while documenting civilian murder, Anders collects evidence designed to expose the atrocities to the world. However, before he can make his move, he, Sebastian, and Tatia are captured by the mastermind behind these horrors, the ruthless Colonel Demidov (Rade Serbedjiza), alongside his merciless accomplice, Daniil (Mikko Nousiainen).
Just as hope fades, they are rescued during a daring raid by Georgian soldier Captain Rezo (Johnathon Schaech). Together with a weary Dutchman (Val Kilmer), Anders and his friends are forced to join the fight for their freedom and their ideals in a climactic battle in Gori. Ultimately, while President Saakashvili (Andy Garcia) seeks aid from allies, Anders faces an ultimate test of bravery, striving to save Tatia’s life at the cost of everything he holds dear — except the truth.
Timeline
Thomas Anders' Emotional Turmoil
After suffering a devastating loss in Baghdad that claimed the life of his close friend, Thomas Anders, an American war correspondent, struggles with the haunting memories of that day. He seeks solace and purpose, leading him to the war-torn country of Georgia.
Arrival in Tbilisi
Thomas arrives in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, just as tensions rise on the brink of conflict with Russia. He reunites with a group of dedicated war reporters, prepared to document the unfolding events.
Journey to South Ossetia
With his cameraman Sebastian, Thomas embarks on a dangerous trip north towards South Ossetia. The stakes are high as they push further into the hot zone, hoping to document the unfolding crisis.
Russian Airstrike on Vaziani
Just in time, Thomas and Sebastian witness a catastrophic Russian airstrike on the peaceful village of Vaziani. They document the chaos and destruction, capturing the grim reality of war.
Helping Survivors
Amidst the chaos, they assist traumatized survivors in making their way to a military hospital in Gori. Our heroes stand in stark contrast to the horrors around them, displaying immense compassion.
Tatia's Desperate Search
Tatia, a resilient Georgian school teacher, urgently seeks Thomas and Sebastian's help in searching for her missing family members. Their mission becomes deeply personal as they delve further into the conflict's impact on innocent lives.
Caught in Assault
As they document the tragic murder of civilians, Thomas, Sebastian, and Tatia find themselves caught in a full-scale assault. Their lives hang precariously as they face the brutality of war head-on.
Captured by Colonel Demidov
Their mission takes a dark turn as they are captured by Colonel Demidov, who is at the heart of the atrocities. The trio must find a way to escape while retaining proof of the horrors they have witnessed.
Daring Rescue
Just as their hope begins to dwindle, Georgian soldier Captain Rezo leads a daring rescue operation. They manage to escape captivity, but their new reality is fraught with danger as they continue their fight.
Joining Forces
Alongside Captain Rezo and a weary Dutchman, Anders and his friends are compelled to join the battle for their survival. They are thrust into a climactic confrontation to protect their lives and ideals.
President Saakashvili's Call for Help
As the conflict escalates, President Saakashvili seeks international aid, desperately calling for support from the military and political allies. The hope for a resolution hangs in the balance.
Ultimate Test of Bravery
In a gripping finale, Anders faces a profound test of courage as he confronts the realities of war. He must decide whether to risk everything to save Tatia's life, prioritizing truth above all else.
Characters
Thomas Anders (Rupert Friend)
Thomas Anders is an American war correspondent haunted by his past, driven by a need to find solace in reporting during a new conflict. Resourceful and determined, he embodies the struggle between his personal demons and professional duty. Throughout the film, he evolves as he witnesses the brutality of war and fights to save others while seeking the truth.
Miriam Eisner (Heather Graham)
Miriam Eisner serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stakes at play, representing the emotional weight carried by war reporters. Her tragic past influences Anders' journey, evoking themes of loss and motivation as he navigates the chaos of conflict. Her character symbolizes the broader narrative of compassion amidst destruction.
Tatia (Emmanuelle Chriqui)
Tatia is a resilient Georgian schoolteacher who becomes a crucial ally for Anders and Sebastian. Her unwavering determination to find her missing family showcases the human cost of war and the unyielding spirit of those affected by violence. Tatia's character highlights the personal narratives behind larger geopolitical events.
Colonel Demidov (Rade Serbedjiza)
Colonel Demidov represents the ruthless side of warfare, a character whose actions encapsulate the cruelty and calculated brutality of military conflicts. His presence serves as a formidable antagonist, forcing the protagonists to confront their fears and make difficult choices in their quest to uphold the truth.
Sebastian (Richard Coyle)
Sebastian is a cameraman and fellow reporter who stands alongside Anders during their perilous journey. His character embodies loyalty and courage, providing support in dire situations while contributing to the documentation of the unfolding tragedy. Through their partnership, the film emphasizes camaraderie in the face of adversity.
Captain Rezo (Johnathon Schaech)
Captain Rezo is a Georgian soldier who plays a pivotal role in rescuing Anders and his friends. His bravery highlights the commitment of local forces in the face of overwhelming odds, underscoring the theme of courage that permeates the film. Rezo's character represents hope and resilience amidst the chaos of war.
Setting
Time period
2008
The film is set during the 2008 Russian invasion of Georgia, a significant geopolitical conflict that drew international attention. This tumultuous period involved intense military operations, marked by a struggle for survival and the fight to document the realities of war. The backdrop also coincides with the Beijing Olympics, providing a stark contrast to the desperate circumstances faced by the characters.
Location
Georgia, Tbilisi, South Ossetia, Vaziani, Gori
The movie takes place in Georgia, a country known for its rich culture and history, particularly during times of conflict. Key locations include Tbilisi, the capital, which serves as a hub for war reporters; South Ossetia, a breakaway region witnessing violent clashes; and Vaziani, a village impacted by airstrikes. Gori, notable for its military hospitals, becomes a focal point of bravery and resilience amidst chaos.
Themes
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Journalism
At the heart of the movie is the theme of journalism, emphasizing the role of reporters in uncovering truth during wartime. Through the protagonists' actions, the film explores the moral responsibility of journalists to document suffering and expose atrocities, even at great personal risk. This theme highlights the struggles and sacrifices made by those who strive to bring light to the darkest moments of human history.
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Courage and Sacrifice
Courage and sacrifice are pivotal themes as characters risk their lives to help others and tell their stories. The film portrays the emotional toll of war, focusing on personal losses and the desperate attempts to save loved ones. This theme resonates deeply, showcasing both physical bravery on the battlefield and the emotional strength required to face dire situations.
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