Decision Before Dawn

Decision Before Dawn is a highly engaging 1951 war film, adroitly directed by Anatole Litvak. This World War II movie features Richard Basehart, Gary Merrill, and Oskar Werner in lead roles, and is set within the often murky and morally ambiguous theater of war. As the title subtly suggests, the nerve-wracking plot revolves around challenging life-or-death decisions made in face of a rapidly approaching dawn.

Decision Before Dawn is based on the novel "Call It Treason" by George Howe. The storyline is steeped in layers of suspense, making it a must-watch for followers of war-based dramas. The film was also nominated for two Academy Awards in 1951—Best Film Editing and Best Picture—which speaks volumes about the esteem held for this evocatively true-to-life war drama.

The plot revolves around the lives of three distinct personalities caught in the destructive whirlpool of World War II. These characters include an American intelligence officer Lt. Rennick, played by Richard Basehart, a cynical German deserter codenamed "Happy", portrayed by Oskar Werner, and "Tiger", a former circus performer turned POW, played by Hans Christian Blech. These characters, with their respective varying backgrounds and motivations, are forced to grapple with conflict and commercial espionage as they navigate alliances and betrayals in their uniquely painful journeys.

Gary Merrill delivers a powerful performance as Col. Devlin, a determined and pragmatic officer charged with the task of turning German POWs into American informants, a task as morally challenging as it is strategically necessary. The scenes involving Devlin are intelligently narrative and serve to underline the degree of extreme complexity in warzone decisions.

It is noteworthy that the film was shot on location in Europe. This on-location filming lends a gritty authenticity to the narrative, opening a window for the audience into the then-ravaged European landscapes and cities, and the tangible lingering menace of war. The locations amplify the tension and pull viewers deeper into the challenging moral and emotional dilemmas facing the characters.

Anatole Litvak's adept direction is apparent in how he weaves the narrative around the lives, dreams, fears, and difficult choices of the central characters. He is able to unveil the layers of their respective personas, their motivations, their frailties and the burdens they bear in the service of their missions.

The cinematography by Franz Planer is breathtaking and adds deep dimensions to the war story. It gives viewers glimpses of beautiful European landscapes juxtaposed with the harrowing reality of a war-torn Europe, making the audience experience an immersive journey.

Oskar Werner conveys the conflict of "Happy" with poise and conviction. His performance is noted for the nuanced interpretation of his character's emotional disarray intermixed with his sense of duty. Richard Basehart's portrayal of Lt. Rennick is also commendable as he battles with the challenge of his assignment and the hesitations that come with it. Meanwhile, Hans Christian Blech's performance as "Tiger" adds a distinctive touch to the film’s narrative, impeccably blending humour and sorrow into his character's journey.

Decision Before Dawn is touted as a lesson in storytelling demonstrated through its engaging depiction of war, intricate characterizations, and nail-biting suspense. It is a film that goes beyond the standard narratives of good versus evil, exploring instead the blurred lines between the two and the human element in war—decision-making, bravery, betrayal, survival instincts, and the irrevocable cost of conflict on both the victors and the vanquished.

Notwithstanding the historical backdrop of WWII, the film is intensely character-driven, giving insights into the personal struggles, emotions, and decision-making of the individuals caught in the existential catastrophe that is war. The film’s title itself symbolizes the tense anticipation and the building pressure to make a choice before the break of dawn.

In conclusion, Decision before Dawn is not just a war film but a thought-provoking reflection on humanity in itself. Moving, engrossing, and exceptionally well-crafted, this film would make an excellent choice for any movie enthusiast, not just fans of the war movie genre.