Le 12ème Homme

What a brilliant film, even more so as it's based on a true story.

What a tremendous fact-based story of courage, not just of one man, but of the many who drew strength from his example and defied the occuping forces. Stories like this need to be told and to be seen. It is in times like this that humanity rises above itself or capitulates to the forces of great evil. Great performances. Skillful storytelling. Gruesome moments. Deft direction. Stunning locations. I give this film a 9 (superb) out of 10. {Testimental War Drama}

'The 12th Man' is a gripping, heart wrenching survival story, based on fact. Due to the film being so well made, and brilliant acting by Thomas Gullestad, this was a very difficult watch.

The cinematography is stunning with breathtakingly beautiful scenery. As the film progresses, it almost becomes torture for the viewer, too. Torture from having to endure (and experience) what Jan Baalsrud (Gullestad) went through. Through Gullestad's incredible acting, I felt every inch of agony and pain of his character. It is also beautifully inspirational to see how helpful people can be in desperate times, risking their own lives in the process. Be warned, some scenes are cringe worthy due to their graphic nature.

The film's run time did feel a bit too long, but nevertheless effective in conveying what Baalsrud was going through, having to overcome obstacle upon obstacle over a 2-month period. 'The 12th Man' is an excellent production and fascinating tale, but indeed a difficult watch.

This film is about a sole survivor of a Norwegian resistance mission. The plot follows his struggle for survival and his devotion to his cause and his mission. So we become witnesses to an excellent adventure that contains pretty much everything. Ruthless nazis hunting down anyone who opposses them, ruthless nature with really hard conditions, everything against the will of a single man who never gives up. This is a story of devotion and fortitude. It's a story about selflessness. A story of a man who amongst thousands like him, sacrificed for their country and for freedom, in a period where darkness and morbidity were prevailing.

This came up first in my Netflix list so I decided to have a look. I am so glad I did. This is one of the best films I've seen for ages. It is graphic, violent at times, harrowing, nail biting (in more ways than one), heart rending, heart warming; but overall inspiring.

It is very realistic and is well acted by everyone. The lead roles are excellent and very convincing. That it is a true story is mind blowing. I was absorbed in the film from the start and it just got better.

It is different than most war films I have seen, quite a low key production, but it tells this story in a way that takes you right into the conflict. You can't help but feel for the characters involved and marvel at their resilience and bravery. It will have you cringing and crying and watching mouth opened.

I was blown away by it. Very very highly recommended.

I can't believe I have not come across it before. I guess being Norwegian and subtitled it just staying the background of mainstream blockbusters, but for me it was a marvel.

I am so glad I watched it. It inspired me, moved me and educated me.

There was just one thing I wanted at the end, that was not to be, but that's real life I guess.