Set in northern Italy during the last days of the Second World War, The Final Sacrifice follows the beleaguered vanguard of Axis forces, entrenched on an increasingly isolated position and suffering daily from aerial bombings and the constant threat of attack from vengeful locals. Soon, tempters flare between these allies, as their enemies threaten to overwhelm them and their impending fate looms over the devastated, war-torn horizon.
This World War II story told from the perspective of the Axis isnt the first of its kind, but this compelling tale told from the other side of the fence still feels like something of a rarity. Told from three separate perspectives, this objective tale of gruelling hardship in a conflict where death hangs constantly over all concerned follows an American platoon tasked with delivery supplies to their comrades, an infighting contingent of German and Italian troops and an opportunistic band of Italians, who trail the ill fated soldiers, pocketing anything left in their wake.
With so many sides to a story, it would have been all too easy for The Final Sacrifice to lean in favour of one side or the other. But reassuringly, Ari Taubs superior war story avoids such pitfalls. Each faction is treated with objectivity, the focus largely on the human drama behind each character. Every group is populated by a diverse selection of characters that are as equally endearing or dislikeable, whatever side of the conflict they represent. Particularly memorable are the scenes of infighting between the German soldiers and Italian troops they are forced to assume into their number. The heightened tension between the men as they slowly begin to wane from hunger is palpable, meagre mealtimes a potential tipping point for all out conflict.
The Final Sacrifice isnt lacking in the action department, but the intense focus on the diverse groups of desperate personalities and their colliding stories is made all the more immersive thanks to some sensational production values. Taubs work behind the camera is impressive, with well chosen intimate, sometimes invasive shots to highlight the tense exchanges between the men. Elsewhere, a blunt approach to the violence rightfully shows the true horror of war, with a later scene showing the inhumanity dealt out by all sides.
Overall Verdict: It might make for uncomfortable viewing, but this compelling war story provides a fresh perspective rarely explored. Oozing authenticity, with exquisite production values and a well researched script The Final Sacrifice is one thatll stay with you for a long time.
Special Features:
Making of
Reviewer: David Steele