Gregory Hoblit directed "Hart's War," which came out in 2002, and it’s a World War II story centering on a legal officer—a lieutenant who mostly handled paperwork (Colin Farrell)—who finds himself a prisoner of war after being captured in Belgium. He is transported to a German POW camp located in southern Germany during the final stages of the European conflict. There, he develops a friendship with and provides legal representation for an airman from the Tuskegee Airmen (Terrence Howard). Marcel Iures portrays the compassionate German officer in charge of the camp, while Bruce Willis embodies the stern American colonel overseeing the prisoners. Cole Hauser appears as a prejudiced soldier. This isn't your typical WWII film. While it begins with some impressive battle sequences, it shares more similarities with films like "Stalag 17" (from 1953) and "The Great Escape" (1963), but made using contemporary filmmaking techniques. As the title suggests, it has a feel similar to “Hogan’s Heroes,” only without any humor, combined with elements of “A Few Good Men” (1992). The movie isn't primarily about enduring conditions in the POW camp; instead, it focuses on the conflicts among the prisoners and unfolds as a criminal story. Some viewers have questioned whether a German officer would permit a trial like the one shown in the film. However, there are plausible explanations for why the commandant might allow such a proceeding: (1.) to provide amusement, (2.) to observe and comprehend American customs, (3.) because he anticipated the war’s imminent conclusion and desired favor with the Allied forces, or (4.) a combination of these reasons. It's worth noting that the commandant studied in the United States after World War I, so he was fascinated by American culture and had an appreciation for jazz music. The need for entertainment seems significant because life as a prisoner is monotonous for both those holding captives and those who are held captive. The ending makes it clear this is a war movie and not a realistic depiction of events, but the action sequences are intense and dramatic. It's also quite emotional in the end. Despite disappointing box office results, "Hart’s War" stands out as an excellent World War II POW camp film and, in certain respects, even a remarkable one. The film has a running time of 125 minutes and was filmed in the Czech Republic. GRADE: B+/A-

Source on TMDB