Rescue Dawn

About Rescue Dawn

"Rescue Dawn" is a 2007 war drama film directed by Werner Herzog. The screenplay is based on Herzog’s 1997 documentary film "Little Dieter Needs to Fly". The film focuses on Dieter Dengler, a German-American pilot, who was shot down over Laos in 1966 and held captive in a prisoner of war camp. He, along with a ragtag group of captives, plan a daring escape into the dangerous jungle. It's a gripping and intense film of survival, human resilience, and the unwavering spirit of freedom.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Werner Herzog, known for his intense and often perilous film productions. Filming for Rescue Dawn took place in Thailand, using the challenging natural jungle as a major component of the drama. Herzog sought to tell the true story of Dieter Dengler with minimum special effects and a traditional cinema verite approach.

Actors

• Christian Bale as Dieter Dengler - Bale brings a fervent determination and authenticity to the role of the adventurous and resilient pilot.
• Steve Zahn as Duane W. Martin - Zahn plays Dengler's fellow captive, delivering a deeply poignant and transformative performance.
• Jeremy Davies as Eugene DeBruin - Davies offers a nervous and introverted counter-point to Bale's resolute character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie is based on a true story of Dieter Dengler, who wrote a book about his adventures.
• Christian Bale lost a significant amount of weight in order to portray the deteriorating health of his character.
• Werner Herzog, the director, actually spent time with the real Dieter Dengler before his death in 2001.

Awards

While the movie didn't win a major film award, it was praised for its realistic portrayal of Dengler's story and the stunning performances by the cast, most notably Christian Bale.

Quotes

• "Empty what is full. Fill what is empty. Scratch where it itches." - Dieter
• "I never wanted to go to war. I only wanted to fly." - Dieter

Music / Soundtrack

Score for the movie was composed by Klaus Badelt and it effectively complements the intense and emotional scenes in the film. The soundtrack includes tracks such as “Rescue Dawn” and “Eugene’s Map” and subtly underlines the narrative without drawing attention from the visual storytelling.