Assael Bielski (Bell) and Tuvia Bielski (Craig) in Defiance (2008) (Image: Karen Ballard)
A gripping wartime epic uniting James Bond and Ray Donovan in one of the most extraordinary true stories of the Second World War is now available to stream on Netflix UK.
Defiance, the 2008 historical drama featuring Daniel Craig and Liev Schreiber, has quietly amassed a devoted following over the years – and viewers rediscovering it today are hailing it as « one of the best films ever. »
Set in Nazi-occupied Belarus, Defiance recounts the remarkable real-life tale of the Bielski brothers – Tuvia, Zus, Asael and Aron – four Jewish siblings who fought back against the Nazi regime by establishing a resistance group deep in the forests.
The film draws on Nechama Tec’s non-fiction book Defiance: The Bielski Partisans, dramatising their extraordinary efforts to shelter over 1,200 Jewish refugees in the woodland, effectively creating a concealed village under constant threat of annihilation.
Craig portrays eldest brother Tuvia Bielski, who emerges as the group’s leader, while Schreiber takes on the role of fiery warrior Zus.
Tuvia Bielski (Daniel Craig) in Defiance (2008) (Image: Paramount Pictures)
Jamie Bell stars as their younger brother Asael, and George MacKay – who would later earn acclaim for 1917 – portrayed the youngest, Aron.
Released at the close of 2008 and directed by The Last Samurai’s Edward Zwick, the film had its US premiere just ahead of awards season, going on to earn an Oscar nomination for Best Original Score, composed by James Newton Howard.
It also received a Golden Globe nomination in the same category. Shot on location in Lithuania — just 200 kilometres from where the real events unfolded — the production made use of authentic forest landscapes and even recruited local extras descended from Jewish families saved by the Bielski family.
Despite a modest opening in selected cinemas, Defiance gathered pace during its wider release, ultimately taking $52 million at the box office worldwide. Critics offered a mixed reception, yet audience admiration has only strengthened over time.
Defiance (2008) tells a true story (Image: Publicity Picture)
One five-star reviewer on Letterboxd wrote: « Must watch 10/10. Whenever you have Daniel Craig (Bond) and Liev Schreiber (Ray Donovan) play two Nazi-hunting Jews navigating a group of a thousand displaced Belorussian Jews through the Yarden forest, facing the ultimate adversity – you have me sold ».
Another added: « Action-packed, great quotes, accurate, and a thrill ride from start to finish. You’ll be rethinking how powerful a sense of community is. (People forget!) »
Numerous fans commended the emotional depth of the story, which strikes a balance between large-scale survival drama and intimate character-driven moments.
The film equally delves into the trials of leadership under seemingly impossible circumstances, particularly as the group grows from a small band of fighters to more than a thousand civilians.
One viewer said: « For me, one of the best films ever. So inspiring and tragic at the same time. Worth watching. » Another questioned why it hasn’t received greater recognition, saying « I still find it crazy that this film is not considered a modern classic, with its stunning cinematography, fantastic performances, and gripping story ».
Defiance is currently available to stream on Netflix UK.
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