Tag Archives: napoleonic wars

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World

IMDB Rating: 7.50
35194 votes

from $1.99

Storyline
During the Napoleonic Wars, a British frigate, HMS Surprise, and a much larger French warship, the Acheron, with greater fire power, stalk each other off of the coast of South America. Russell Crowe brings great intensity to the role of Captain Jack Aubrey. Lucky Jack, as he is referred to by his crew, is well regarded by his men, who trust him implicitly, even after the first devastating battle and an apparent personal vendetta against the French captain. While the naval battle sequences are quite fantastic, the film is successful because director Weir chose to build the story to get to know the men who are locked aboard the tight quarters of a small ship and how they interact everyday. The officers and the mates are well-known by the time the final battle comes. Paul Bettany offers a strong performance as the surgeon and naturalist who balances the violence of his chosen life with the quiet demeanor of the scientist. He is the captain's friend and confidant, the two frequently playing violin and cello duets together. The horrors of the injuries from the war are frequently implied, but vividly depicted in the reactions of the characters.
Actors
Capt. Jack AubreyRussell Crowe
Dr. Stephen Maturin, SurgeonPaul Bettany
1st Lt. Tom PullingsJames D'Arcy

War and Peace

IMDB Rating: 6.60
996 votes

from $1.99

Storyline
Spruced up adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's epic novel about the life of a Russian family during the War of 1812. The historical and personal events are seen mostly through the eyes of Natasha, who is 16 years old at the start of the movie. Contains many panoramic shots of battle in action.
Actors
Natasha RostovAudrey Hepburn
Pierre BezukhovHenry Fonda
Prince Andrei BolkonskyMel Ferrer