Breaker Morant

Breaker Morant

Year: 1980

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: Bruce Beresford

DramaHistoryWar

During the Second Boer War in South Africa, Australian soldiers Harry "Breaker" Morant, Peter Handcock, and George Witton are accused of committing war crimes. They find themselves in a desperate situation, facing a court-martial and the formidable Lord Kitchener, the British Commander-in-Chief. Kitchener is determined to secure their convictions, even if it means compromising justice, to strengthen his position during peace negotiations with the Boer forces.

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Timeline – Breaker Morant (1980)

Trace every key event in Breaker Morant (1980) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Murder Trial Begins

The film opens with the start of the murder trial of three Australian soldiers, Harry 'Breaker' Morant, Peter Handcock, and George Witton. They are accused of murdering a Boer prisoner, which sets the stage for the unfolding legal and moral complexities of the case.

2

Accusations and Charges

The accused soldiers face serious charges, including the murder of six additional Boer prisoners. The prosecution consists of military officials who underscore the gravity of the accusations, highlighting the implications for soldiers in wartime.

3

Lord Kitchener's Involvement

Lord Kitchener, determined to end the Boer War, uses the trial to showcase military accountability. His goal is to emphasize that even his own soldiers must face justice if they violate wartime ethics, placing significant pressure on the trial proceedings.

4

Morant's Motivations

The narrative delves into Morant's motivations, revealing his fierce desire for revenge after the death of his commanding officer, Captain Hunt. This personal loss drives him to take extreme actions against Boer captives, shaping the story's tragic trajectory.

5

Brutal Attack on Boer Camp

In retaliation for Captain Hunt's mutilation, Morant leads a brutal attack on a Boer camp. This violent act results in capturing a Boer wearing Captain Hunt's uniform, culminating in Morant executing him without hesitation, illustrating the raw emotions driving him.

6

Execution of Boer Prisoners

Morant's rationale for executing six Boer prisoners highlights his belief that they posed a threat. He claims orders from higher authorities allowed for such actions, illustrating his moral justifications amidst the chaos of war and personal loss.

7

Death of Rev. Hesse

The plot thickens with the involvement of the German missionary, Rev. Hesse. Suspecting him of espionage, Morant's fury leads to Hesse's murder, a decision that weighs heavily on the court's trial as both Morant and Handcock navigate their culpability.

8

The Trial's Bias

As the trial progresses, the biases of the court become glaringly evident. Major Thomas argues that unrecorded orders existed to execute Boer prisoners, yet the informal nature of communications complicates the defense, showcasing the intertwined politics of the trial.

9

Murder of Hesse Acquittal

Despite the evidence against Morant and Handcock regarding Hesse's murder, the court acquits them of this charge. However, they are found guilty on other counts, emphasizing the moral ambiguities that underpin their actions during the war.

10

Verdict and Sentences

The trial concludes with devastating outcomes. While Witton's sentence is reduced to life imprisonment, Morant and Handcock face execution, highlighting the cruel ironies of a wartime justice system that prioritizes accountability over individual lives.

The following morning
11

Execution Day

On the day of their execution, an ironic twist of fate occurs; Handcock's coffin is too small for his body. This grotesque moment underscores the tragic consequences of the soldiers' actions and the toll of war on their lives.

12

Aftermath of the Trial

The aftermath of the trial reveals the fates of the soldiers. Major Thomas returns to Australia to continue his law practice, while Witton endures a lengthy prison sentence, ultimately finding a controversial avenue for storytelling.

Australia
13

Witton's Publication

Witton writes *Scapegoats of the Empire*, a book detailing the events surrounding the Breaker Morant affair. However, the book's content is so inflammatory that it is suppressed during the World Wars, reflecting societal tensions over historical narratives.

14

Legacy of the Trial

The trial leaves a lasting impact on military ethics and wartime accountability. It serves as a poignant case study illuminating the complexities and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers during conflicts.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:37

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