The Bombardment

Horrible to think of the circumstances that make this such an incredibly moving film especially as it is a true story.. RAF bombers head for Copenhagen to bomb the Nazi headquarters out of existence, where its its occupants have placed a human shield in the building. However, as with all the best plans something goes very wrong and..........? Fanny Bornedal (daughter of the writer director) plays the mischievous, maverick Nun, Sister Teresa who is able to win over the school children as she speaks and acts on their level. The real stars include Bertram Enevoldson, Ester Birch and Ella Nilsson as three of the kids. Keep the tissues within reach.

I've never really understood the term friendly fire, it's a term used in the war time when a Allied troops or planes accidentally kills or Injures troops or civilians of an allied country. There really is nothing friendly about this especially when it came to the 86 children killed during the bombing raid on the Copenhagen Gestapo offices in 1945. You can't help but feel this was something that should never have happened with experienced crew as the war reached its conclusion, especially as it was a daytime raid.

I was aware of the story but as it brought to life in this heartbreaking film really brings home the true pointlessness of war. Have we learnt from this? I write this piece whilst the current war is taking place in the Ukraine and hundreds of civilians are being murdered by Russian cruise missiles. This mission whilst achieving its main objective of destroying the Gestapo headquarters the deaths of those innocent children make it one of the lowest points in the history of the RAF.

Hopefully not in the World War (3) sense, but just in the sense of Ukraine being invaded by Russia. And the bombing of facilities and houses that are not quite necessary. A meanigless war and a lot of grieving and hurt people left ... more so every day it goes on.

The movie is about a certain event during World War 2. It is quite comprised - and it really works quite well. Acting wise and how tight it is told. Effects are good and the movie will draw you in - really good actors and script to boast. Not easy to watch because of the subject matter, but those who really let themselves invest in it ... will not regret it.

Indeed, this is a gripping story by any standard. One of the unintended unfortunate consequences of war to the unaffected bystander but deeply tragic to the victims' families.

Great acting by the young actors, namely, Betram Enevoldson, Ester Birch and Ella Nilsson. They performed their roles like veteran thespians. The side story of Frede and Sr. Teresa, while unnecessary to some, actually enriches the overall narrative.

Any war is horrible but mankind hasn't learned its lessons yet. Should we accept this as integral to the human condition?

As a cold hearted SOB it's extremely rare to find a film that hits me in the feels, but this one certainly did. Well written and executed and fantastic child actors. This is up there with some of the best war films in my opinion.