Set against the turbulent backdrop of the Vietnam War in 1966, "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan" delves into the harrowing experiences of Australian and New Zealand troops who are deployed to support the United States and South Vietnamese forces against the advancing communist North. Among the ranks are young men—both recruits and volunteers—many of whom have never before faced the brutal realities of combat. The film vividly portrays their camaraderie, fears, and the daunting challenges they confront in a foreign and unforgiving land.
Central to the narrative are Major Harry Smith, portrayed by Travis Fimmel, and Sergeant Bob Buick, brought to life by Luke Bracey. These officers lead their men through intense moments of strategy, courage, and resilience. As tensions escalate, their leadership becomes critical in navigating the uncertainty and danger that loom over their unit. The story explores not only the physical battles but also the emotional and psychological toll on those thrust into the chaos of war.
On August 18th, the members of Delta Company find themselves engulfed in the brutal and relentless Battle of Long Tan, set within the dense, menacing trees of a rubber plantation. Facing overwhelming odds—barely a hundred soldiers against a seemingly unending human wave—the men confront the raw horror and determination of warfare. Their fight becomes a testament to endurance, sacrifice, and the unbreakable human spirit amidst one of the Vietnam War's most significant engagements.
Main Cast of Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan
Travis Fimmel
Major Harry Smith
Travis Fimmel played a significant role in the war film 'Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan,' where he portrayed a key figure in the Australian forces during the historic Vietnam War battle. His performance was noted for its depth and authenticity, bringing a grounded and emotional resonance to the character that stood out amidst the intense war scenes. What made Fimmel's portrayal unique was his ability to convey the complex mix of bravery, vulnerability, and camaraderie that soldiers experienced, providing a humanizing perspective to the war narrative. A lesser-known behind-the-scenes fact is that Travis Fimmel actively trained with the military advisors on set to accurately depict the soldiers' movements and tactics, which added a layer of realism to his performance and the overall film.
Luke Bracey
Sergeant Bob Buick
In 'Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan,' Luke Bracey portrays Second Lieutenant Dave Sabben, a young Australian officer leading his men through the harrowing 1966 Vietnam War battle. This role marked a significant moment in Bracey's career, showcasing his ability to embody complex, real-life characters with emotional depth and leadership presence. Unlike some of his earlier work, which often involved contemporary action or romantic dramas, this performance required a nuanced representation of historical military leadership under extreme pressure. Bracey's commitment to authenticity and his compelling portrayal of Sabben's courage and vulnerability distinguished this role from his previous projects, earning him critical recognition and demonstrating his range as an actor.
Daniel Webber
Private Paul Large
In the movie 'Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan,' Daniel Webber portrays a character who is part of the Australian forces during the Vietnam War, capturing the intense and harrowing experiences of soldiers in this significant historical battle. This role is a departure from some of his earlier and more widely recognized work, such as his portrayal of Charles Manson in the TV series 'Mindhunter,' showcasing his versatility as an actor. Webber's performance stands out due to its grounded and authentic portrayal of the camaraderie and resilience among soldiers, highlighting his ability to bring depth and emotional nuance to roles rooted in true events. This role fits into his overall career by reinforcing his commitment to diverse and challenging parts, demonstrating his range beyond psychological thrillers into war dramas.
Aaron Glenane
Captain Morrie Stanley
Aaron Glenane delivers a compelling portrayal of Captain Morrie Stanley in 'Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan,' bringing a nuanced blend of leadership and vulnerability to the role that stands out amidst the film's intense battle sequences. Compared to his other performances, Glenane's role as Captain Stanley showcases his ability to capture the complex emotions of war, balancing command authority with deep personal resolve. A notable trivia fact about Glenane is that he is also a seasoned theater actor, which contributes to the authenticity and depth he brings to his screen characters.
Nicholas Hamilton
Private Noel Grimes
In the movie 'Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan,' Nicholas Hamilton portrays David Sabben, a young Australian soldier caught in the harrowing Battle of Long Tan during the Vietnam War. This role allowed Hamilton to delve into a historically significant and emotionally intense narrative, highlighting the bravery and camaraderie of soldiers under extreme circumstances. Compared to his earlier, more recognizable performances in films like '
It' (as Henry Bowers) and '
Captain Fantastic' (as Nate), this role marked a significant shift toward historical drama and showcased his ability to embody real-life characters in heavy, dramatic settings. The performance stood out due to its depth, emotional weight, and the physical demands of portraying combat, illustrating Hamilton's growing range and maturity as an actor beyond his previous work in horror and independent drama.
Alexander England
Warrant Officer Class 2 Jack Kirby
Crew of Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan
Full backstage crew list →