The Great War

The Great War

Year: 2019

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Luke

DramaWar

During the final stages of World War I, a unit of African-American Buffalo Soldiers becomes isolated from the main fighting force. When one soldier deserts, he unexpectedly joins forces with a seasoned white officer. Together, they embark on a perilous mission to locate the missing comrades, facing danger and hardship while forging a bond of camaraderie and demonstrating extraordinary courage amidst the chaos of war.

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Timeline – The Great War (2019)

Trace every key event in The Great War (2019) 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

The Great War Begins

The Great War, also known as World War I, officially starts on July 28, 1914. This monumental conflict brings unprecedented devastation and sets the stage for intense global warfare.

July 28, 1914
2

U.S. Soldiers Embark on a Mission

As the war reaches its final days, a group of U.S. soldiers embarks on a perilous mission behind enemy lines. Their objective is to rescue a stranded platoon that is cut off and vulnerable amidst the chaos of battle.

3

Captain Rivers Leads an Assault

Captain William Rivers leads an ill-fated assault against German defenses. The attack results in catastrophic losses for his unit, leaving only a handful of survivors to carry on the mission.

4

Rivers Enlists His Team

In a strategic effort to reclaim some ground, Rivers assembles a small team including Private Cardinni and Pinchelli. Although they manage a minor tactical gain, the cost in lives is significant.

5

Discovery of Isolated Colored Unit

Rivers's team encounters a group of black soldiers who are stranded behind enemy lines. This alarming situation triggers concerns about the vulnerability of the colored unit facing an overwhelming German force.

6

Colonel Morrison Receives Intelligence

On November 9th, Colonel Jack Morrison at U.S. Army HQ learns of the isolated colored unit's plight. He promptly informs General Pershing, who fears for their safety as the war draws to a close.

November 9 Chaumont
7

Authorization of the Rescue Mission

General Pershing decides to launch a rescue mission to support the vulnerable colored soldiers. He instructs Rivers to lead the operation despite the racial tensions that may erupt within his unit.

8

Rivers Assembles His Crew

Gathering his team, Rivers includes Cardinni, Pinchelli, and new volunteers like Jenkins, a colored radioman. Contrastingly, Captain Hooker expresses disdain for the mission, leading to further tensions.

9

Encounter with the Red Cross Nurse

Rivers and his team meet Mary, a Red Cross nurse, on their way to locate the colored unit. She provides essential information about the wounded soldiers and guides them toward Hill 473.

10

Warning of German Mobilization

Upon linking up with Captain A.J. Stevens, Rivers receives grave news that the Germans are gathering artillery and battalions near Hill 473. This jeopardizes the colored unit's defense as the ceasefire approaches.

11

Losses and Descent into Chaos

Tragedy strikes when a grenade kills Pinchelli, leading to rising frustrations within Rivers’s team. Despite the hostility and reluctance, Rivers insists on proceeding with the mission to save the colored soldiers.

12

Contact with Sgt. Perry

Upon finding the colored unit, Rivers attempts to relay extraction orders through Sgt. Perry. However, Perry and his men refuse to abandon their hard-won position on Hill 473, risking further dangers.

13

Preparations for Defense

Faced with impending German forces, Rivers devises a strategy to defend Hill 473. The unit steels itself for battle, determined to hold the position and support their comrades against overwhelming odds.

14

The Battle Commences

As dawn approaches, the German captain demands surrender from Rivers, who resolutely declines. The U.S. troops launch a surprise counterattack that inflicts substantial casualties on the enemy.

15

The End of the War

Despite their courageous stand, Rivers succumbs to his wounds in the ensuing battle, yet his unit manages to hold Hill 473 until 11 a.m. on November 11, 1918, marking the end of World War I.

November 11

Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 08:45

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The Great War Summary

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The Great War Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Great War

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