This is a recounting of what’s considered the most successful rescue operation in American history. On January 30, 1945, U.S. Army Rangers, Alamo Scouts, and Filipino guerrillas managed to save over 500 prisoners of war from certain death at a Japanese camp in the Philippines. The order had come down for the Japanese to eliminate all prisoners before they evacuated as MacArthur’s forces approached. The film features Benjamin Bratt, James Franco, Max Martini, Joseph Fiennes, Connie Nielsen and Marton Csokas. "The Great Raid" was adapted from "The Great Raid on Cabanatuan" and "Ghost Soldiers." I read the latter book, and it's fascinating to see what I pictured in my mind brought to life onscreen. The rescue, alongside the liberation of Camp O’Donnell that same day, enabled those prisoners to reveal details about the atrocities committed at Bataan and Corregidor. Although the operation didn't have any impact on the war itself, it seems to have inspired renewed determination in the fight against Japan. It remains a record as the most successful rescue mission in U.S. history. The movie was filmed back in 2002 but experienced several delays before finally getting a limited release in August of 2005, with virtually no advertising. It’s not surprising that it didn't attract an audience or do well at the box office. Despite this, it’s a worthwhile World War II film based on actual events. The prisoners held in the camp were survivors of the infamous 60-mile Bataan Death March which occurred in April 1942. It doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh brutality of the Japanese military. While the raid itself doesn't happen until about an hour and a half into the film, it is worth sticking around for; the preceding scenes provide background information and maintain your interest. I wouldn't necessarily describe it as exceptional, but it's a well-made and educational war movie for those interested in this subject. It’s even more rewarding if you have read one of the books that served as its source material. The film has a running time of 2 hours and 12 minutes and was filmed on Bribie Island, Queensland, Australia, with the Manila scenes shot in Shanghai, China. GRADE: B

Source on TMDB