Watch William Kelly's War

William Kelly's War is a 2014 Australian drama film directed by Geoff Davis. The movie is set during World War I and is based on a true story. The plot is centered around the character of William Kelly, a stubborn and determined young man living in rural Victoria, Australia, who refuses to fight in the war. William, played by Peter Berzanskis, is a farmer who firmly believes that war is not the solution to any problem. He stands by his principles and refuses to join the army even when his friends and family constantly pressure him to do so. When William's brother is killed in action, his resolve to remain neutral only strengthens. He believes that there must be another way to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence.

As the war progresses, William becomes more and more isolated from his community, who view him as a coward and traitor. He faces harassment and persecution from both the local authorities and his neighbors. They also make life hard for his mother, played by Maureen Alford, who struggles to keep the family farm operational.

Things take a turn when William is arrested and imprisoned for refusing to join the army. He is shipped off to Egypt where he is subjected to brutal treatment and harsh conditions. His experience in prison forces him to reconsider his stance on war.

Back home, William's mother and sister, played by Marie-Therese Bjornerud, take on the responsibility of running the farm. They face numerous challenges and obstacles, including drought and the loss of William's brother. The two women demonstrate incredible strength and resilience as they work to keep the farm operational in the absence of their men.

The film effectively captures the plight of those who refused to fight in World War I. It highlights the immense pressure faced by individuals who chose to remain neutral and depicts the hardships they faced as a result of their decision. The movie also explores themes of community, family, and loyalty.

The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of the Australian countryside. The film also features impressive performances from the cast, particularly Peter Berzanskis and Maureen Alford, both of whom give nuanced and heartfelt performances. The soundtrack is composed by Bruce Rowland, whose work on The Man from Snowy River is widely celebrated.

William Kelly's War is a poignant and powerful film that sheds light on a little-known chapter of Australian history. It is a testament to the courage and determination of those who stood by their convictions, even in the face of adversity. The movie does an excellent job of immersing viewers in the time period and provides a thoughtful examination of the complexities of war and pacifism.

William Kelly's War is a 2014 war movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.