Sisters of War

Sisters of War is an evocative 2010 historical drama that focuses on the trials and tribulations faced by a group of women trapped in the midst of World War II in Papua New Guinea. The ensemble cast, led by Claire van der Boom, Sarah Snook, and Khan Chittenden, embody a range of characters who reveal an often-overlooked side of the global conflict.

The film emerges as a compelling account of humanity, resilience, and the will to survive. It centers on the true story of a group of Australian nurses and Catholic nuns who found themselves in an untenable predicament, marooned in a hostile environment. These women - 60 nurses and a group of nuns - managed to endure 100 days of suffering at the hands of the Japanese forces.

The blending of the storyline between nurses and nuns gives the film a crossover appeal, showcasing the contrasting yet heartwarming relationships and divergent religious and moral beliefs. The main character is Nurse Lorna Whyte, portrayed by Claire van der Boom, who displays a captivating performance of a resilient and dedicated young woman navigating the perils of war.

Sarah Snook, an Australian actress known for her versatile acting skills, delivers a touching portrayal of Sister Berenice Twohill. Her character’s fluctuating internal struggle, commitment to Catholic values, and determination to protect and care for those around her bring much emotional depth to the film. Along the way, Sister Berenice forges an unexpected bond with Nurse Lorna, which forms the emotional crux of the storyline.

Khan Chittenden, a New Zealand-born actor, takes on the role of the wounded Australian soldier. His interactions with the nurses and sisters add another layer to the narrative, contributing to the uniquely woven and gripping story of suffering, endurance, and hope among these trapped women.

Primarily a war drama, Sisters of War doesn't shy away from representing scenes of intense hardship and tension. On the other hand, it maintains a thoughtful balance with moments of tenderness, light-heartedness, and human connection that are genuinely poignant. It also does not refrain from showing the brutality and harsh realities of war, ensuring that the viewer fully grasps the terrifying conditions the women faced.

The film is directed by Brendan Maher, with the script penned by John Misto. Maher's directorial style in Sisters of War takes a 'no frills' approach to the storytelling - there's little glamourisation of war here. Instead, the viewer is given a raw, undiluted depiction of the characters' experiences, positioning the viewer to truly empathize with the hardship and terror faced by these courageous women.

John Misto's screenplay firmly anchors the film in realism, avoiding the temptation of melodrama. Scenes of conflict and hardship are handled with maturity, bringing authenticity to the narrative. The script also focuses intensely on the human element of the story, exploring the fears, strengths, principles, and perseverance of the central characters.

As for the technical aspects, the cinematography is worth noting. Garry Phillips's cinematography captures the harsh yet beautiful landscapes of Papua New Guinea. This contrasts the serene beauty of the land with the ugliness of war. The production design and costumes inject further authenticity into the film, making the viewers feel they have traveled back in time to the 1940s.

In conclusion, Sisters of War is a powerful and honest portrayal of women's strength and resilience during one of history's darkest periods. It allows us to see war from an original perspective—that of nurses and nuns trapped in a cruel predicament. This, combined with strong performances from the film's leading actors—Claire van der Boom, Sarah Snook, and Khan Chittenden—and a skillful production and direction team makes Sisters of War a film that leaves a lasting impression, serving as a tribute to the uncelebrated heroines of our past.